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FINE EDITION— 75 Cents. 
WITH OFFICIAL REPORTS. 



OUR ARMY 



ON 



THE RIO GRANDE. 



HORT ACCOUNT OF THE IMPORTANT EVENTS TRANSPIRING 
FROM THE TIME OF THE REMOVAL OF THE "ARMY 
OF OCCUPATION" FROM CORPUS CHRISTI, TO 
THE SURRENDER OF MATAMOROS; 

WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF 

THE BATTLES OF PALO ALTO 



RESACA DE LA PALMA, 

THE BOMBARDMENT OF FORT BROWN, 

AND 
THE CEREMONIES OF THE SURRENDER OF 

MATAMOROS: 

WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF THE CITY, &c. &c. 
BY T. B. THORPE, 

Author of "Tom Owen, the Bee Hunter," " Mysteries of the Backwoods," &c. 

Illustrated by Twenty-six Engravings. 



PHILADELPHIA: 

CAREY AND HART. 

And for sale by all Booksellers in the United States. 
1846. 



Prospectus of 
CAREY AND HART'S 

LIBRARY FOR THE PEOPLE 

On Clear Type and Fine White Paper. 

The Subscribers propose to publish, under this general title, a se 
of the best productions of the day, from the British press, in the sev j 
departments of Standard Literature. 

Popular Histories, Memoirs of Eminent Persons, Voyages J 
Travels, where such are found to possess peculiar interest and val 
will form the staple of this "Library," although other works will 
embraced in the range of selection. 

Fiction will be excluded from the series; which, while it is intena. 
for all readers, will more particularly aim to form, and at the same ti'm. 
supply, the tastes of those who have heretofore had but limited oppor\ 
tunities of access to books of the description therein presented. 

Each work will appear in its integrity: the publishers will scrupu- \] 
lously refrain from the slightest omission or alteration of the text. 

The resources and facilities of the publishers enable them, with con- 
fidence, to promise a collection of the highest order of merit, and, as 
an evidence of the variety and extent of their undertaking, a list is 
subjoined of works which, among others, it is intended to incorporate 
in the "Library for the People." 



1. History of the Bastile. 

2. Achievements of the Knights 

of Malta. 

3. History of the Conquest of 

Peru by the Spaniards. 

4. Aikin's Memoirs of Addison. 

5. Lives of the British Drama- 

tists. 

6. Green's Life of Mahomet. 

7. Reid's Philosophy of Death. 

8. Historical Memoirs of the 

House of Bourbons. 

9. Curiosities of Physical Geo- 

graphy. 
History of Remarkable Con- 



10 



s piracies connected with 
European History. 
1 1 . Carrick's Life of Sir William 
Wallace. 



12. Corner's China. 

13. Holling's Life of Gustavu 

Adolphus. 

14. Davenport's Life of Ali Pa- 

cha. 

15. Corner's British India. 

16. Palgrave's History of the 

Anglo-Saxons. 

17. History of Gustavus Vasa. 

18. Life of Hernan Cortez. 

19. Hays' Morocco and the Moors. 

20. Tytler's Life of Henry the 

Eighth. 

2 1 . Morehead's Dialogues on Na- 

tural and Revealed Reli- 



gion. 

22. Aytoun's Life of Richard the 
Lion- Hearted. 

23. Proctor's History of Italy. 
The series will appear in uniform size, printed on fine white paper, 

in clear type, and the price will range, according to the number of pages, 
from twenty-five to fifty cents per volume. 

CAREY & HART, 

Chestnut and Fourth Streets, Philadelphia. 



K- 



OUR ARMY 



THE RIO GRANDE 





INTERIOR <>F FORT BROWN. 
'he Graves of Major Browr and Lieut. Ste.rens at the foot of the Flag staff. 



PHILADELPHIA: 

C A REV AND HA R T. 




1S46. 



OUR ARMY 



ON 



THE RIO GRANDE. 



A SHORT ACCOUNT OF THE IMPORTANT EVENTS TRANSPIRING 

FROM THE TIME OF THE REMOVAL OF THE " ARMY 

OF OCCUPATION" FROM CORPUS CHRISTI, TO 

THE SURRENDER OF MATAMOROS; 

WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF 

THE BATTLES OE PALO ALTO 



RESACA DE LA PALMA, 
THE BOMBARDMENT OF FORT BROWN, 

AND 

THE CEREMONIES OF THE SURRENDER OF 

MATAMOROS: 

WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF THE CITY, ETC. ETC. 
ILLUSTRATED BYTWENTY-SIX ENGRAVINGS. 



BY T. B. THORPE, 

IUTHOR OF "TOM OWEN, THE BEE HUNTER;" " MYSTERIES OF THE BACK WO 



PHILADELPHIA: 

CAREY AND HART. 

1846. 




Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1846, by 

Cakex and Habt, 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Eastern District 
of Pennsylvania. 



STEREOTYPED BY JOS. C. D. CHRISTMAJf. T. K. it P. G. COLLINS, PRINTERS. 



PREFACE 



The events treated of in this work, are of too recent occurrence, 
and of an interest too absorbing, to require a preface. The author 
was among those who were deeply excited by the stirring incidents 
connected with our little army on the Rio Grande, in the months of 

^April and May, 1846, and he was on the battle fields, and among the 
heroes, almost immediately after the occurrences that have rendered 
them immortal in the histoiy of the country. The idea of writing 

#he following little volume, was suggested by the accumulation of 
materials, collected for the transient purpose of varying the columns 
of a daily paper, and urged on by the honorable wish to record some 
of the noble deeds of our soldiers, that might otherwise be forgotten. 
The author is indebted to several officers of high standing in the 
army for facilities of obtaining information, among whom he would 
mention, in the most respectful terms, Major Gen. Gaines and Gen. 
Worth. 

The illustrations of the work are from nature, save the one repre- 
senting the death of Major Ringgold; that is an attempt to embody 
the scene from descriptions of eye witnesses. At the time the author 
visited Major Ringgold's grave, at Point Isabel, there was nothing, ex- 
kept the freshness of the sod, to distinguish it particularly from the 
three or four about it. Some time afterwards, his brother officers 

protected it by a significant railing, which the author is happy to 

n 

learn, will be sent to Baltimore with the hero's remains. 

Louisiana, August, 1846. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

Army leaves Corpus Christi — Face of the country — Deceptive appearances 

' v —Fresh water — Arrival at the Colorado— Crossing disputed — Prairie — 

Camp intruders— Point Isabel — Deputation dismissed — Fanques del Ra- 

minero 11 

\ 

CHAPTER II. 

The army arrives opposite Matamoros — Our flag raised on the Rio Grand e — 

Gen. Worth passes over to Matamoros — Interesting interview — Shooting 

*• deserters — Run-away slaves — Social intercourse between the two armies ' 

suspended — Ampudia's proclamation - - - - - 17 

CHAPTER III. 

Fort Brown commenced — Col. Cross disappears — Gen. Ampudia arrives in 
Matamoras — A parley — Gen. Ampudia's Letter — Gen. Taylor's answer — 
Lieut. Porter — Blockade of the Rio Grande — Reasons for so doing — Hostile 
appearances — Gen. Arista's advice to the soldiers of the United States — 
Discovery of the murdered body of Col. Cross 26 

CHAPTER IV. 

The Mexicans commence crossing the Rio Grande — Col. Cross's funeral- 
Prospect of hostilities thicken — Arrival of Gen. Arista in Matamoros — 
His letter to Gen. Taylor — Captain Thornton's command captured — Parti 
culars of his surprise — Death of Lieut. Mason — Communication with Point 
Isabel cut off 3fe 

CHAPTER V. 

Brazos Santiago — Incident in its history — Entrance in the bay — Point Isabel — 

j Don Roderiguez — His conduct — Retreat from Point Isabel — Col. Twiggs 

takes possession of it — Made a depot of military stores — Major Munroe takes 

command — Stirring incidents — Capt. Walker leaves for Fort Brown 45 

CHAPTER VI. 

Gen. Taylor, with the army, march out of Fort Brown — The Fort — Mexican 
account thereof — Mexican valor— Sorrow at not meeting Gen. Taylor — 



CONTENTS. 

Bombardment commenced — Incident — Death of Sergeant Weigart — Mexi- 
can account of the first day's bombardment — Triumph of their arms — 
Bravery of the people of Matamoros — Additional particulars — Bulletin of 
Northern Division — Glory of the Mexican arms — Their future prospects 
with posterity -----------49 

CHAPTER VII. 

Bombardment — Point Isabel — Capt. May attempts a communication with 
Fort Brown — Incidents connected therewith — Major Brown's orders to his 
men — Appearance of the enemy — Bombardment resumed — Mexican re- 
connoisance — Anecdote 59 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Gen. Taylor's orders to Major Brown — Signal eighteen-pounders — Bomb- 
proof shelters — Manner of escaping from the bursting shells — Anecdote 
of a dodger — Mexican on the look out— Major Brown mortally wounded — 
White flag — Correspondence between Gen. Arista and Capt. Hawkins — 
Infantry attack — Bombardment at night — Mexicans fired into — New bat- 
teries opened — Interference with music — Mexican forlorn hope — Excite- 
ment in Fort Brown — Distant cannonading — Anticipations - - 65 

CHAPTER IX. 

The army leaves Point Isabel — Encamps for the night — Plains of the Palo 
Alto — Preliminaries of battle — Lieut. Blake's reconnoisance — Battle of the 
8th commences — Churchill's batteries — Ringgold's batteries — Duncan's bat- 
teries — Mexican charge — Repulse — Ridgely's batteries— Ringgold's — Dun- 
can's — The prairie on fire — Action suspended 73 

CHAPTER X. 

Action resumed — New line of battle — A brave soldier — Capt. Page wound- 
ed — Ringgold's battery — Ringgold's fall — Mexican charge — Repulse — 
Duncan's battery, its movements — Close of the battle — The wounded — 
Council — Result — Gen. Taylor's despatch — Gen. Arista's despatch - 79 

CHAPTER XL 

Morning of the 9th — The train parked — A dead cavalry officer— Evidences 
of the battle of the 8th — Interesting incident — Advance guard under Capt. 
McCall — Fatal accident to Lieut. Blake — Burial of the dead — Evidences 
of a murder — Enemy discovered — Resaca de la Palma — Lieut. Dobbins— 
Ridgely ordered forward — The battle begins — It becomes general - 89 



CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XII. 
Gen. Taylor's order to Capt. May — Ridgely's coolness — May's charge — Its 
effects — Fall of Lieut. Inge — The capture of Gen. Vega — The Fifth charges 
— Capt. Hooe wounded — Lieut. Col. Payne wounded — The Eighth — Lieut. 
Col. Belknap's charge — Lieut. Lincoln — Fall of Lieut. Chadbourne — Lieut. 
Jordan wounded — The Third — The Fourth — Capt. Buchanan — Lieutenants 
Woods and Hays — Capt. Barbour — Gallantry and death of Corporal Chis- 
holm — Lieut. Col. Mcintosh wounded — Charge of Duncan's battery — 
Incident — Arista's camp — Charge of Mexican cavalry — Death of Lieut. 
Cochrane 96 

CHAPTER XIII. 

The fort — The flag — Death of Major Brown — Intense excitement — Specula- 
tions on the battle — Evidences of defeat — Retreat — Pursuit — Mexicans- 
Col. Curasco— Gen. Ampudia — Death of Father Leary — Consternation in 
Matamoros — Terrible effects of the defeat — Gen. Taylor's despatch from 
Resaca de la Palma 105 

CHAPTER XIV. 

Burial of the dead on Resaca de la Palma — Lieut. Inge — Lieut. Chadbourne — 
Lieut. Cochrane — Affecting Incident — Exchange of prisoners — Mexican ser- 
geant — Gen. Vega — Prisoners of war — Wounded — Gen. Taylor starts for 
Point Isabel — Com. Conner — "Jack ashore" — Meeting — Major Ringgold — 
His death — Official despatch 112 

CHAPTER XV. 

Gen. Taylor starts for camp — Returns — Lieut. Col. Wilson's command — 
Taking of Barita — Appearance of it — Proclamation — Preparations for tak- 
ing Matamoros — Armistice proposed — Ceremonies thereof— Death of Lieut. 
Stevens — Raising of the flag — Disposition of the army — Head quarters 
of Gen. Taylor — Governor of Matamoros — Prefect — A plain talk — Lieut. 
Col. Garland pursues Arista — Is fired upon — Anecdote — The Rio Grande 
after the battles — The battle fields 120 

CHAPTER XVI. 

Early history of Matamoros — It becomes important to the government — Its 
situation — Appearance from Fort Brown — Red tower — The ferry Anaciiita 
— Its attendants — Ferrymen — Ranchero — Cattle driving — Sudden order — 
Suburbs of Matamoros — Mexican hedge — Sand-bag fort battery — Changes 
— Commander-in-chief 129 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

The bridge — Change in the country — Private residence of a wealthy citizen — 
Newspaper in Mexico — Interior of the city — Plaza — Cathedral — Its 
front — Chapel— Its worshippers — Halls of justice — Head quarters of our 
troops — Mexican prison — A prisoner free — Court room — Military stores — 
The rich widow — Her mules 139 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

Chapel de la Capilla — Its use by Gen. Arista — Its ornaments — Its worship- 
pers — Incident — The grated house— Suburbs of the town — The ruined bar- 
racks — The red tower — Scene suggested — Mexican hospitals — Treatment 
of the sick— Their appearance — The artillery — Musket wound — Market 
square — Its commodities — Queer dogs — Mexican exquisite - - 147 

CHAPTER XIX. 

Abandoned public stores in Matamoros — The copper shells — Mexican im- 
posts — Large gun-carriages — Saddles — Evidences of hasty retreat — Revo- 
lutions in Mexico — Their effects on the business of Matamoros — Its pros- 
pects under a settled government — Number of men engaged in the battles 
— Arista's statements — French consul's statement — Alcade Gomez — Pro- 
bable number of troops — Conduct of our soldiers — The moral effects of 
the battles 155 

CHAPTER XX. 

ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 

The Generals in Camp — Hard to whip — A chivalrous soldier — Case of army 
cruelty — Mexican lieut. col., a la Gen. Vega — A perfidious Mexican — A 
sufferer by the bombardment — Amusing scene in Matamoros — Mutilating 
the dead — Mexican exaggeration — Unexpected attack — A gratified Mexi- 
can — The Smith family in Mexico — Rio Grande deer, largest on record — 
Mexican soldiers — The trophies of the war — A boxing Irishman — Young 
Mcintosh — A fighting clergyman west of the Rio Grande — Commerce on 
the Rio Grande — A brave Mexican — Sergeant Vandenhoof — A bold act— 
Capt. Bliss's horse — A death avenged — A Mexican's eye to business — A 
Jersey boy — Dogs in the battle — Gen. Taylor's frankness — Winning a 
saddle — The force of a ball — Mexican rations — Craniological curiosity — 
A squadron of disappointed lovers — Mexican cruelty — Beautiful remark — 
Chivalrous act 160 



CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXL 

Translations from Mexican papers found in Matamoros — An editor speculates 
on the propriety of anniversaries — He glories in the great days of the Mexi- 
can nation — Some doubt comes on his mind about the unsullied character 
of his national flag — Glorious prospects, if certain things come to pass — 
Ampudia's resignation to Arista — Canales threatens to exterminate the 
Anglo-American nation — Ampudia's proclamation against illicit trade — 
Arista's report of the Mexican killed and wounded on the 8th and 9th — 
Parrode to the troops of the department of Tamaulipas - - - 177 

CHAPTER XXII. 
Major General Z. Taylor — His military History 184 

OBITUARY. 

Major Jacob Brown — Major Samuel Ringgold — Capt. John Page — Lieut. 
J. E. Blake — Lieut. Theodore Lincoln Chad bourne — Lieut. Z. M. P. Inge 
— Lieut. R. E. Cochrane } - 189 

BATTLES ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

OFFICIAL REPORTS. 

Reports of General Taylor — Col. Twiggs — Lieut. Col. Garland — Major Allen 
— Capt. Robert C. Buchanan — Capt. L. N. Morris — Major T. Staniford — 
Lieut. Ridgely — Capt. May — Lieut. Col. Belknap to Gen. Taylor — Capt. 
Duncan — Capt. McCall to Gen. Taylor — Capt. Smith — Capt. Hawkins — 
Capt. Mansfield — Inventory of captured property - - - -197 

Despatches of Gen. Taylor previous to Actual Hostilities - 241 

List of Commissioned Officers - - 294 



OUR ARMY 



ON 



THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER I. 

Army leaves Corpus Christi — Face of the country — Deceptive appearances 
— Fresh water — Arrival at the Colorado — Crossing disputed — Prairie — 
Camp intruders — Point Isabel — Deputation dismissed — Fanques del Ra- 



After a long and uninteresting sojourn at Corpus Christi, the 
"Army of Occupation" received orders to march, and take up its position 
on the Rio Grande. A change even for "worse" would have been 
a relief to both officers and men ; but a change so evidently for the 
"better" was hailed with the greatest pleasure by all. On the 11th 
day of March, 1846, the army broke up its encampment, and com- 
menced winding its way over the desert country that lies between 
the river Nueces and the Rio Grande del Norte. That apparent 
suspension of vegetation, and every other blessing that makes a de- 

Note. — In the spring of 1844, pending the negotiation for the annexation 
of Texas, two regiments of infantry, and one of dragoons, constituting a corps 
of observation, were concentrated near the Sabine, by order of President Tyler. 
The command of this corps was intrusted to Gen. Taylor, who was instructed, 
in general terms, to protect Texas from Mexican invasion, during " the nego- 
tiation." In the midsummer of 1845 the " army of observation" was aug- 
mented by an artillery company, from Charleston, S. C, and the army was 
then denominated the "Army of Occupation," consisting of two regiments of 
infantry, one of dragoons, and a single company of artillery, the whole force 
amounting to fifteen hundred men. On the 26th of June, 1845, an artillery 
company, equipped as infantry, sailed from Charleston, S. C, to New Or- 
leans, under orders from the secretary of war. Gen. Taylor sailed from New 
Orleans, on the 23d of July, with three ships and two steamboats, for Aransas 
bay. On the 3d of August the whole "Army of Occupation" had landed at 
St. Joseph's island, in Corpus Christi bay, near the mouth of the Nueces. 
About the middle of August a document was found among some wrecked 

11 



12 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

sirable habitation for man, has been alluded to by certain statesmen, 
as particularly suited for a division line between two great nations. 
The country over which the army passed was mostly rolling prairie ; 
the barrenness of which was only relieved by the wiry grass which 
affords grazing for cattle. The quality of the soil, together with the 
total want of woodland, and wholesome water, will ever keep it from 
becoming permanently occupied by man. As they proceeded toward 
the Rio Grande, the face of the country gradually lessened in interest, 
and after a wearisome march of seven days the army found them- 
selves in a barren, Sahara-like desert. The suffering now became 
intense ; not only were the necessary fatigues of a march to be en- 
countered, but to this was added the deprivation of water, life's 
greatest blessing, while the appearance of every thing around was 
calculated to depress the mind, and cause it to suffer equally with 
the body. 

Suddenly the scene changed. Islands of stunted green forests be- 
came scattered over the landscape, crystal lakes glistened in the 
sun, and reflected, as mirrors, the clear, blue sky above. But, alas, 
the green clumps that at a distance had promised so delightful a 
shelter from the scorching sun, were composed of the jagged thorn 
tree, and unpenetrable cactus ; and the fairy lakes, so beautiful to 
the eye, as if to tantalise, were filled with salt, thirst-creating water. 
The ground seemed heated ashes, in which the foot would sink at 
every step. Human nature sunk, exhausted, while the cattle dropped 
in their tracks. The Spanish bayonet alone seemed luxuriant, and 

goods on the shores of Aransas bay, which proved to be a war proclamation 
of the Mexican government. Deceived by its belligerent tone, Gen. Taylor 
announced to his army that war had been declared. At this time a small 
portion of the army was west of the Nueces, the remainder being on St. Jo- 
seph's island. On the 16th of August some smugglers reported that Gen. 
Arista was on his march to meet Gen. Taylor with three thousand choice 
troops. Vague rumors reached New Orleans that an overwhelming Mexi- 
can force was rapidly marching towards the Nueces, when the citizens of 
that city despatched two companies of artillery to his assistance, and the 
secretary of war ordered out an additional force of forty-five companies. 
On the 15th of October Gen. Taylor writes to the secretary of war that his 
whole force is three thousand eight hundred and sixty men. On the 13th 
of January, 1846, Secretary Marcy, for the president, ordered Gen. Taylor to 
move his force towards the Rio Grande. These orders Gen. Taylor received 
February 4th, and immediately commenced the necessary preparations to 
accomplish such an object. 



ARRIVAL AT THE COLORADO. 13 

by its needle-pointed leaves appeared to mock those who would 
gather its snowy blossoms. It seemed the representative of all 
nature around it, where the general beauty, like its own, led those to 
ruin who would embrace it. 

Again there was a stretch of barren desert, and beyond this was a 
fountain of wealth, far more coveted than gold — fresh water was be- 
fore them. Men, who were apparently exhausted beyond recovery, 
made one desperate effort to reach the life-giving spring. Years of 
suffering had been crowded into a few hours' march, for a tropical 
sun and a parched mouth make the soul tremble, from the suffering 
of the body it inhabits. Under the excitement the faint and exhausted 
infantry pressed onward with renewed life, while some miles ahead 
the artillery were seen, at a halt, enjoying the luxury of water. As 
the soldiers reached it discipline was forgotten, their arms thrown 
down, they rushed bodily in, thrusting even their heads beneath the 
waves, in their desire to quench the thirst that was consuming their 
vitals. 

Gen. Taylor, with " the advance," reached the Colorado on the 
20th. This lovely stream of clear, salt water, winds its way through 
bluff banks twenty or thirty feet in height. Its borders are lined for 
a very great distance inland with thickets of thorn bushes, inter- 
spersed with a dwarfish tree, called the mosquete. This " chaparral" 
is almost impenetrable, the smaller shrubs are of the toughest kinds 
of woods, and as if its thorns and strength were not sufficient to repel 
invasion, enormous prickly pears spring up in every place where 
room can be found for its roots. 

When Gen. Taylor appeared on the bank of this river he found, as 
had been rumored, a party of Mexicans there, who disputed his pas- 
sage with — their tongues. They told him that if an attempt was 
made to cross the river, they would fire upon his troops, such being 
their orders. The army was immediately formed into line of battle, 
and it was thought hostilities would now commence, if such were the 
orders of the Mexican commander, as the place was a favorable one 
in which to dispute Gen. Taylor's progress. The Mexicans now 
sounded bugles for a great distance, both up and down the river, 
evidently wishing to create the impression that there was a large force 
in the vicinity. Our troops, although they expected to cross the river 



14 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

under a shower of musketry, were eager to advance. Some delay- 
occurred in making a road down the bank. Gen. Taylor informed the 
Mexicans, that as soon as this was completed he would cross, and 
that he should fire upon any one of them that appeared in arms after 
he commenced so doing. The artillery was drawn up to cover the 
ford, and their port fires lighted. There now arrived an officer from 
Matamoros, an aid to the commander-in-chief of that city, Gen. Mejia, 
who delivered to Gen. Taylor a letter, the contents of which were, 
that, if the American army crossed the Colorado, the Mexicans would 
consider it a declaration of war, and hostilities would at once ensue. 

The road down the river bank being by this time completed, the 
order of " forward" was given. Capt. C. F. Smith, with four compa- 
nies of artillery, constituted the "forlorn hope." These now gal- 
lantly dashed into the ford, Gen. Worth leading the way. No enemy 
appeared in sight, and the best opportunity that the Mexicans ever 
had of opposing the American army was lost to them. 

On the 22d the army moved in four columns across the prairie 
towards Matamoros. The immense number of huge rattlesnakes now 
met with was almost incredible; they seemed literally to fill the 
country between the Colorado and the lakes, reaching within a few 
miles of Point Isabel. They glided through the long grass, striking 
terror to all, and crawled by hundreds into the " camp" of the soldiers, 
coiling themselves under the blankets ; a location they seemed to 
prefer to any other among the " army equipments." So numerous 
were these serpents, that the soldiers humorously took the precaution 
to shake their knapsacks in the morning, to know if they were occu- 
pied. Occasionally would the ear be saluted with a noise resembling 
the pouring of shot into a tin cup, and that knapsack was treated ac- 
cordingly. 

Gen. Taylor having heard that the Mexicans held Point Isabel, the 
harbor on the Texian coast nearest the mouth of the Rio Grande, 
and the contemplated depot for his " military stores," determined to 
change his route, and march for that place. The country was now 
hourly growing richer in its agricultural appearance. Deer were seen 
through the distant openings, and a great variety of duck, and other 
water-fowl, skimmed over the ponds. 

On the 24th the army reached the " Matamoros road," that runs 



i 



POINT ISABEL— MATAMOROS. 15 



between that city and Point Isabel. Gen. Taylor, learning that the 
point was not occupied by Mexican troops, ordered a " halt," and 
then proceeded with the dragoons, and the " train," to that place. 
The army moved forward some six miles, under the command of 
Gen. Worth, when it encamped, to await the return of the commander- 
in-chief. 

Gen. Taylor was met near Point Isabel by a deputation of citizens, 
at the head of which was the Prefect of the State of Tamaulipas, to 
protest against his occupation of the country. The general, who had 
now become quite accustomed to Mexican " Pronunciamientos," would 
most likely have dismissed the deputation without a reply, but upon 
the instant, discovering the smoke of what he judged to be the firing 
of the houses at Point Isabel, he told the prefect that he would give 
him an answer when opposite Matamoros on the 28th. Gen. Taylor 
then ordered forward the dragoons, under Col. Twiggs, to stop, if pos- 
sible, the conflagration, and arrest the authors of it. Steamboats with 
" supplies for the army" arrived at Point Isabel almost at the same 
instant with Gen. Taylor, so admirably had he arranged the business 
of the campaign. 

The army now rapidly advanced toward Matamoros, the country, 
as they approached, seeming more rich in vegetation, while the masses 
of " chaparral" were more frequent as they neared the Rio Grande. 
Several places as they passed along were noticed as favorable posi- 
tions for an opposing army to occupy, and Gen. Taylor pointed out 
one where he said he would have a battle with the Mexicans, if they 
were disposed to meet him in the open field. A few weeks after this 
casual remark was made, the spot thus designated by Gen. Taylor, 
became known to the world as the battle ground of Resaca de la 
Palma. 

It was with the most pleasurable feelings that both officers and men 
saw, in the distance, the deep blue haze that marked the serpentine 
course of the Rio Grande, and the prospect of once more resting " in 
camp," with the luxury of a fresh water river rolling by, while all 
around them was spring-like vegetation ; this, with the novelty of the 
scene, all conspired to fill our army with delight. Large droves of 
splendid horned cattle were now frequently seen, and occasionally a 
small cotton field, hedged in by thorn bushes, strengthened by trunks 



16 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

of trees set in the ground, gave welcome evidence of a settled country. 
Scattered Mexican huts next appeared. The army was approaching 
the hacienda Fanques del Raminero, and with it all the signs of idle, 
tropical life. Gardens of pomegranate and orange trees filled the air 
with fragrance ; and perhaps the familiar sound of chickens, that sug- 
gested fresh eggs and broils, was equally musical to the tired soldier, 
while the voices of the singing birds, from every hedge, poured forth 
sweet music, as if to greet the " Army of Occupation." A large num- 
ber of irregular Mexican soldiers retreated before the march of our 
army ; a few of these stragglers distinguished themselves by capturing 
two of our dragoons who were " far in the advance ;" also the horse 
of a bugler boy, who managed to escape his pursuers, and bring the 
news of the capture of his comrades. The tidings of this outrage 
created a great deal of excitement. 



ARRIVAL OPPOSITE MATAMOROS. 17 



CHAPTER II. 

The army arrives opposite Matamoros — Our flag raised on the Rio Grande — 
Gen. Worth passes over to Matamoros — Interesting interview — Shooting 
deserters — Run-away slaves — Social intercourse between the two armies 
suspended — Ampudia's proclamation. 

The " Army of Occupation" arrived upon the east bank of the 
Rio Grande, and opposite Matamoros, between 11 and 12 o'clock 
on the morning of the 28th day of March, 1846. Nothing could 
exceed the joy of the soldiers on beholding this river which formed, 
at that time, the latest south-western boundary of the United States. 
The rich verdure of the banks, the cultivated gardens scattered around, 
and the clustering fig and pomegranate trees, seemed like fairy land, 
when contrasted with the desert over which they had passed. The 
approach of the army had, of course, been announced in the city of 
Matamoros, and its population had turned out by thousands, lining 
the west bank of the river with dense masses of curious faces to 
witness the proceedings. The Mexican national flag was flying from 
the head quarters of Gen. Mejia, at that time commander of the forces 
in the city. A temporary flagstaff, prepared by the Eighth Regiment, 
under the superintendence of Lieut. Col. Belknap, was raised, bearing 
aloft our national ensign, with no other demonstration of joy than was 
pealed forth by our bands, one playing the Star Spangled Banner, 
while the other gave forth the inspiring notes of Yankee Doodle. 
The instant our flag was run up, it was saluted from Matamoros by 
the consulate flags of the English and French nations. The army 
looked in vain for the American flag ; it was murmured from mouth 
to mouth, " Where is our flag !" " What has become of our consul !" 

Directly after our colors had been raised on the east of the Rio 
Grande, Gen. Worth and his staff were directed to cross the river with 
a communication from Gen. Taylor to the commander-in-chief of the 
Mexican forces, and the civil authorities. Gen. Worth and suite de- 
scended to the water's edge, bearing a white flag, which was soon an- 
swered by a boat from the Mexican side, bearing two officers, (repre- 

2 



18 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

sented as cavalry officers,) an interpreter, and one other person. A 
message was then sent to inform the commanding officer of the Mexi- 
can forces, that a general officer of the United States Army had been 
sent by his commanding general with despatches to the commanding 
general at Matamoros, and to the civil authorities ; and that an inter- 
view was requested.* 

After some conversation explanatory of the above, the Mexican 
party recrossed the river to report to the commanding general at Ma- 
tamoros and return with his reply. An open note for the American 
consul at Matamoros, with an endorsement on the back in pencil, was 
delivered to the Mexican officer. He replied, that he should hand it 
to the commanding general. u Certainly — of course," was Gen. 
Worth's remark in reply. 

On the return of the same party, Gen. Mejia sent word, that if the 
commanding general of the American forces wished a conference with 
the commanding general of the Mexican forces, it would readily be 
acceded to: but as a junior to the commanding general, on the part 
of the American troops, had requested a conference, Gen. Mejia could 
not entertain such a proposition ; but that an officer of corresponding 
rank and position in the Mexican forces would be ready to receive 
any communication sent by Gen. Taylor. 

It was perceived that the relation of the parties was misapprehended, 
they supposing that a conference was requested. This was corrected 
immediately, and it was reiterated that Gen. Worth was merely the 
bearer of despatches, with authority to relate verbally certain matters 
of interest to the commanding general at Matamoros. 

The proposition of Gen. Mejia was then acceded to, with the re- 
mark, that this was a mere question of form, which should not be 
permitted to interfere with any arrangements necessary to the con- 
tinuance of the friendly relations now existing between the two go- 
vernments. 

The Mexican party recrossed to the right bank, and after a short 
absence returned, stating that Gen. Romulo Vega would receive Gen. 
Worth on the right bank of the river — their own selection — for the 
reception of any communication which Gen. Worth might have to 
make from the commanding general. 

* We are indebted to Gen. Worth for a MS. copy of this interview. 



MISSION OF GEN. WORTH. 19 

Gen. Worth then crossed the river, accompanied by Lieut. Smith, 
aid-de-camp ; Lieutenants Magruder, Deas, and Blake, attached to his 
staff; together with Lieut. Knowlton, as interpreter. On arriving at 
the right bank of the river, Gen. Worth was received by Gen. Vega 
with becoming courtesy and respect, and introduced to the " authori- 
ties of Matamoros," represented in the person of the Licenciado Ca- 
sares. On the Mexican part were present, Gen. Vega, the Licenciado 
Casares, two officers — represented as cavalry officers — an interpreter, 
with a person named Juan N. Garza, Official de Defensores. 

After the usual courtesies on meeting, it was stated by Gen. Worth, 
that he was the bearer of despatches from the commanding general 
of the American forces to Gen. Mejia and to the civil authorities of 
Matamoros. A written and unsealed document was produced, and 
Gen. Vega desiring to know its contents, it was carefully read and 
translated into French by Lieut. Knowlton, and afterwards retrans- 
lated into Spanish by the Mexican interpreter. Gen. Vega then 
stated, that he had been directed to receive such communications as 
Gen. Worth might present from his commanding general ; going on to 
say, that the march of the U. S. troops into a part of the Mexican ter- 
ritory, Tamaulipas, was considered as an act of war. 

Gen. Worth. — I am well aware that some of the Mexican people 
consider it an aggressive act ; but [interrupted by the Mexican inter- 
preter, and after a slight discussion of the international question on 
the part of Gen. Vega] Gen. Worth repeated the above remark, add- 
ing, that it was not so considered by his government ; that the army 
had been ordered there by his government, and there it would remain ; 
whether rightfully or otherwise, that was a question to be settled be- 
tween the two governments. Gen. Vega, still disposed to argue the 
merits of the case, was told by Gen. Worth, that " he came to state 
facts, not to argue them." 

Gen. Worth then stated that he had been sent with despatches from 
his commanding general to Gen. Mejia; that Gen, Mejia had refused 
to receive it from him personally, adding, with emphasis and some 
degree of warmth, " I now state, that I withdraw this despatch, having 
read it merely as an act of courtesy to Gen. Vega ; that, in addition to 
the written despatch to Gen. Mejia, I am authorised to express ver- 
bally the sentiments with which the commanding general proposed to 



20 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

carry out the instructions of his government, in which he hoped to 
preserve the peaceable relations between the two governments, leaving 
all questions between the two countries to be settled between the two 
governments ; and if hereafter Gen. Mejia wished to communicate with 
Gen. Taylor, he must propose the means — assuring Gen. Vega that, 
should Gen. Mejia present himself, or send his communications by a 
subaltern officer, in either case he would be received with proper cour- 
tesy and respect." 

The question of right of territory was again opened by Gen. Vega, 
who asked how the United States government would view the matter 
should the Mexican troops march into or occupy a portion of the ter- 
ritory of the United States. 

Gen. Worth replied, that Gen. Vega might probably be familiar with 
the old proverb, " Sufficient for the day is the evil thereof;" and that 
" it would be time enough to consider such matters when the act was 
perpetrated." 

This proverb did not appear to have been translated by the Mexican 
interpreter, but was received by Gen. Vega with a smile and slight shrug. 

Gen. Worth. — Is the American consul in arrest or in prison ? 

Gen. Vega. — No. 

Gen. Worth. — Is he now in the exercise of his proper functions ? 

Gen. Vega, after apparently consulting with the Licenciado Casares 
for a moment, replied that he was. 

Gen. Worth. — Then, as an American officer, in the name of my 
government and my commanding general, I demand an interview with 
the consul of my country. 

No reply. 

Gen. Worth. — Has Mexico declared war against the United States ? 

Gen. Vega. — No. 

Gen. Worth. — Are the two countries still at peace ? 

Gen. Vega. — Yes. 

Gen. Worth. — Then, I again demand an interview with the consul 
of my government, in Matamoros — in presence, of course, of these 
gentlemen, or any other that the commanding general in Matamoros 
may be pleased to designate. 

Gen. Vega reiterated that he was in the proper exercise of his 
functions ; that he was not in arrest, nor were any Americans in Mata- 



MISSION OF GEN. WORTH. 21 

moros in arrest ; that he would submit the demand to Gen. Mejia, 
adding that he thought there would be great difficulty. This demand 
was repeatedly made, in the most emphatic manner, and a reply re- 
quested, Gen. Vega stating that the consul continued in the exercise 
of his functions, and that the demand would be submitted to Gen. 
Mejia. 

Here the interview was suspended, while the Licenciado left the 
party, to submit, as we understood, the demand for an interview with 
the consul to Gen. Mejia. While engaged in friendly intercourse, 
Gen. Worth stated to Gen. Vega, in an informal manner, as an evi- 
dence of the good faith, intentions, and dispositions of his commanding 
general, that he was well aware of the importance of Brazos Santiago 
to the commerce and business community of Matamoros ; that he 
would respect their laws and customs, and freely grant entrance and 
exit to all Mexican and other vessels trading with Matamoros on the 
same terms as before its occupation by the United States, leaving all 
questions arising therefrom to be settled hereafter by the two govern- 
ments. 

At the expiration of about a quarter of an hour the Licenciado re- 
turned, and reported that Gen. Mejia would not accede to the request 
for an interview on the part of Gen. W T orth, saying nothing, however, 
relative to the question of the consul. 

Gen. Vega was then again informed that the despatches intended to 
be delivered to Gen. Mejia by Gen. Worth in person would be returned 
by him (Gen. W.) to his commanding general, considering any other 
disposition of them as disrespectful to him, repeating that they had 
been read to Gen. Vega in courtesy to him, and that Gen. Mejia must 
take his own means of communicating with Gen. Taylor; that 
whether Gen. Mejia sent a superior or subaltern officer to Gen. Taylor, 
at all times accessible, he would be received with becoming courtesy 
and hospitality, presenting, at the same time, a written and sealed 
document for the civil authorities of Matamoros, which was received 
by Gen. Vega, and immediately transferred to the Licenciado Casares. 

Gen. Vega. — Is it the intention of Gen. Taylor to remain on the 
left bank of the Rio Grande ? 

Gen. Worth. — Most assuredly; and there to remain until directed 
otherwise by his government. 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Gen. Vega remarked that " we " felt indignant at seeing the Ameri- 
can flag placed on the Rio Grande, a portion of the Mexican territory. 
Gen. Worth replied, " that was a matter of taste ; notwithstanding 
that, there it would remain." The army had been ordered to occupy 
its present position by its government ; it came in a peaceful rather 
than belligerent attitude, with a determination to respect the rights 
and customs of those on the right bank of the Rio Grande, while it 
offers protection to all on the left bank within their own territory. 

No reply having been received from Gen. Vega relative to the 
demand for an interview with the American consul, the question was 
again introduced by Gen. Worth, and the demand for the last time 
reiterated. 

Gen. Vega promptly refused to accede to the demand, replying, 
without waiting for the interpretation, " No, no." 

Gen. Worth. — I have now to state that the refusal of my demand 
to see the American consul is regarded as a belligerent act ; and in 
conclusion I have to add, that the commanding general of the Ameri- 
can forces on the left bank of the river will regard the passage of any 
armed party of Mexicans, in hostile array, across the Rio Grande, as 
an act of war, and pursue it accordingly* 

The interview here terminated, and Gen. Worth and staff returned 
to the left bank of the river.| 

After the above interview, the army under Gen. Taylor quietly 
encamped under the broad folds of its own flag, which was never 
removed, (as has been stated by some,) after it was planted upon the 
east side of the Rio Grande. The engineering corps immediately set 
to work to take a topographical survey of the country, preparatory to 
the erection of defences, and other military works. 

* Gen. Worth, when in Washington, furnished the editor of the Union 
with the following, which was intended as a note to the memoranda of the 
conversation between Generals Worth and Vega: — "After repeatedly re- 
marking that he (Gen. Vega) considered us in a state of war, Gen. Worth 
remarked that Gen. Mejia might, by a very simple operation, determine when 
and where the war should begin, but it would be for the United States to 
say when and where it should end. ; ' 

| The above contains the substance of the interview between Generals 
Worth and Vega, and, as far as possible, the exact words and expressions used 
on the occasion. Lieutenants Knowlton and Magmder of the First Artillery, 
Lieut. Deas, of the Fourth Artillery, Lieut. Blake, of the Topographical En- 
gineers, and Lieut. Smith, of the Eighth Infanty, were present at the interview. 



MEXICAN TRADERS. 23 

On the evening of the second day of our occupation of the east 
bank of the Rio Grande, there was an alarm given that the Mexicans 
were crossing by thousands, and that a night attack might be expected. 
This seemed probable. Our army had, as yet, no entrenchments, and 
if the Mexicans really intended to attack, now was the favorable 
time. The watchword was given out, and the men ordered to sleep 
on their arms. Capt. May, with his squadron of dragoons, was or- 
dered to march in double quick time to Point Isabel, to reinforce that 
garrison, and prepare it for a probable attack. The Mexicans had lost 
their best opportunities to assail our forces. They failed to defend 
the passage of the Colorado, and to assault the army on the night of 
its arrival at the Rio Grande, the morning of the 30th dawned, and 
hostilities had not yet commenced. Nothing material occurred for 
several succeeding days. Many of the inhabitants of the surround- 
ing country, and particularly those of the city of Matamoros, visited 
our encampment, offering for sale fresh meats and vegetables. 
Among these traders, it was said (upon what appeared to be good 
authority) there were Mexican officers in disguise, which was no 
doubt the case, as subsequent events proved.* The residents of the 
city and its troops were continually showing themselves upon the 
bank of the river, many of the former appearing in open carriages. 
The narrowness of the Rio Grande gave to these displays quite a 
social character, and, in a measure, made our troops acquainted with 
the inhabitants of Matamoros. Conversation was frequently carried 
on across the river, and most amusing protestations of friendship were 
thus sometimes made. 

On the afternoon of the 4th, considerable excitement was created 
by the firing of musketry " down the river." The first impression 
was, that the enemy had opened on our camp ; the roll was beaten, 
the regiments were quickly formed, and the brigade nearest the river 
rushed tc their arms with a yell of delight. It was a false alarm, as 
far as the Mexicans were concerned. The firing proceeded from a 
picket guard, and was directed at a man who attempted to desert, by 

* Among the plunder found on the battle field of the 9th, was a drum, on 
the head of which was a remarkably accurate drawing of Gen. Taylor's 
encampment in the rear of "Fort Brown," the first one established on the 
Rio Grande. Every tent was marked down, and those of the officers dis- 
tinguished by a sign from those of the privates. 



24 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

swimming over to the Mexican side of the river. The poor wretch 
was mortally wounded, and sunk beneath the turbid waters of the 
Rio Grande. The Mexicans, who crowded the opposite side of the 
river, and witnessed this prompt execution of a deserter, fled, fearing 
least their own time had come. Several soldiers were drowned in the 
attempt to cross the river, and one of the deserters reached the Mexi- 
can side of the river ; but as he was climbing the steep bank, a sen- 
tinel fired across and killed him. A large number of the Mexican 
citizens, who w r ere running to the soldier's assistance, witnessed this 
extraordinary shot of over two hundred yards, and it had a great effect 
upon their future conduct on the river bank. The Mexicans covered 
the dead soldier where he fell, with a sheet, and soon after gave him 
the rights of sepulture. About the time of these desertions, several 
officers lost their servants. They had been enticed away by the in- 
habitants of Matamoros, and, for effect, treated with marked conside- 
ration. They sat at table with Mexican families, and were otherwise 
elevated to a high social position. These servants, in every instance, 
returned by stealth to their masters, save one or two who had been 
taken into " the interior." 

All friendly intercourse was now cut off with the citizens of the 
town. Not a single sentiment of kindly feeling was exhibited by the 
Mexicans, and all of Gen. Taylor's overtures of peace were treated 
with insolent contempt. All Mexican residents and stragglers who 
visited our camp, were ordered by the commander-in-chief of the 
Mexican forces to immediately cross over, and remain on the west 
bank of the river. The entrenchments, began upon our appearance, 
were now pushed rapidly forward, more particularly the one directly 
opposite the American camp. Still, the " signs" were not considered 
warlike ; but the following proclamation that Gen. Ampudia, who was 
now advancing toward Matamoros, managed secretly, by the aid of 
spies, to distribute among our troops, did much to develope to Gen. 
Taylor the real designs of the enemy : — 

Tlie Commander-in- Chief of the Mexican army, to the English and 
Irish under the orders of the American General Taylor : 

Know Ye : That the government of the United States is com- 
mitting repeated acts of barbarous aggression against the magnani- 



AMPUDIA'S PROCLAMATION. 25 

mous Mexican nation ; that the government which exists under " the 
flag of the stars," is unworthy of the designation of Christian. Re- 
collect that you were born in Great Britain ; that the American govern- 
ment looks with coldness upon the powerful flag of St. George, and 
is provoking to a rupture the warlike people to whom it belongs, Pre- 
sident Polk boldly manifesting a desire to take possession of Oregon, 
as he has already done of Texas. Now, then, come with all confi- 
dence to the Mexican ranks ; and I guarantee to you, upon my honor, 
good treatment, and that all your expenses shall be defrayed until 
your arrival in the beautiful capital of Mexico. 

Gennans, French, Poles, and individuals of other nations ! Separate 
yourselves from the Yankees, and do not contribute to defend a rob- 
bery and usurpation which, be assured, the civilized nations of Europe 
look upon with the utmost indignation. Come, therefore, and array 
yourselves under the tri-colored flag, in the confidence that the God of 
armies protects it, and that it will protect you equally with the English. 

PEDRO DE AMPUDIA. 

Francisco R. Moreno, 

Jldjt. of the Commander-in-Chief. 

Head Quarters, upon the road to Matamoros, 

April 2, 1846. 

Farther than exhibiting to our army the covert designs of the enemy, 
the above proclamation, so ingeniously worded to attack the preju- 
dices of our naturalized citizens, produced no effect. It was, like its 
author, treated with contempt and scorn. 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER III. 

Fort Brown commenced — Col. Cross disappears — Gen. Ampudia arrives in 
Matamoros — A parley — Gen. Ampudia's letter — Gen. Taylor's answer — 
Lieut. Porter — Blockade of the Rio Grande — Reasons for so doing — Hostile 
appearances — Gen. Arista's advice to the soldiers of the United States — 
Discovery of the murdered body of Col. Cross, 

On the 5th of April, a small work, intended for the reception of the 
eighteen pounders daily expected from Point Isabel, was thrown up 
opposite our camp. This work was so planned that the guns, when 
in position, would command the town. In the mean time, the troops 
were actively engaged in the construction of the since celebrated field 
work, known as Fort Brown. This extraordinary military defence 
was constructed under the direction of Capt. Mansfield, of the U. S. 
Engineering Corps ; and a regiment was detailed each day, for that 
purpose. Fort Brown is of immense size, having six bastion fronts, 
and being capable of holding four or five regiments of soldiers. 

The reports from Matamoros were, that fresh troops were conti- 
nually arriving from Tampico, Monterey, and the interior. The Mexi- 
cans evidently labored to keep up this impression. Every evening 
could be heard the music of the " grand parade ;" and from morning 
until night, was a continual beating of drums, and the sounding of 
bugles, until it seemed, at times, as if there were whole regiments of 
musicians marching upon the bank opposite the fort. 

On the 10th, Col. Cross,* deputy quarter master general, mounted 
his horse, and proceeded to take his usual ride for air and exercise. 
Night passed away without his return, and his unaccountable absence 
began to excite alarm. The country was known to be full of " irre- 
gular cavalry," whose business it was to murder, plunder, and steal. 
As Col. Cross' absence continued, his probable fate spread a gloom 
over the whole army. Gen. Taylor wrote twice to the commanding 

* Col. Trueman Cross, assistant quarter master general of the Army of Occu- 
pation, was appointed to the army from Maryland, as ensign of Forty-second 
Infantry, the 27th of April, 1814 Army Register. 



AMPUDIA ARRIVES IN MATAMOROS. 27 

Mexican general, making inquiries whether Col. Cross was detained as 
a prisoner in Matamoros, (a belief fondly indulged in by his friends.) 
Nothing was heard, however, that gave the least clue to the mystery 
that hung about his disappearance. 

On the 11th, the cathedral bells of Matamoros rang out a joyous 
peal, the music excelled all former efforts, the troops appeared in 
extra splendor, and a salute of cannon was fired. The long-expected 
Gen. Ampudia had arrived. This was grateful intelligence to our 
troops, as it had been understood, that when Gen. Ampudia arrived, 
our relations with Mexico would assume a definite form, and that 
peace, or war, would immediately be proclaimed. 

On the 12th, a parley was sounded on the Mexican side of the 
river, and two Mexican officers crossed, and were escorted to Gen. 
Taylor's tent. These officers bore the following communication from 
Gen. Ampudia to Gen. Taylor : 

Fourth Military Division,") 
General-in-Chief. y 

To explain to you the many grounds for the just grievances felt by 
the Mexican nation, caused by the United States government, would 
be a loss of time, and an insult to your good sense ; I therefore pass 
at once to such explanations as 1 consider of absolute necessity. 

Your government, in an incredible manner — you will even permit 
me to say an extravagant one, if die usage or general rules established 
and received among all civilized nations are regarded — has not only 
insulted, but has exasperated the Mexican nation, bearing its conquer- 
ing banner to the left bank of the Rio Bravo del Norte; and in this 
case, by explicit and definitive orders of my government, which neither 
can, will, nor should receive new outrages, I require you in all form, 
and at latest in the peremptory term of twenty-four hours, to break 
up your camp and retire to the other bank of the Nueces river, while 
our governments are regulating the pending question in relation to 
Texas. If you insist in remaining upon the soil of the department of 
Tamaulipas, it will clearly result that arms, and arms alone, must de- 
cide the question ; and in that case I advise you that we accept the 
war to which, with so much injustice on your part, you provoke us, 
and that, on our part, this war shall be conducted conformably to the 



28 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



principles established by the most civilized nations ; that is to say, 
that the law of nations and of war shall be the guide of my opera- 
tions; trusting that on your part the same will be observed. 

With this view, I tender you the considerations due to your person 
and respectable office. 

God and Liberty ! 

Head Quarters at Matamoros, 2 o'clock P. Jf., April 12, 1846. 

PEDRO DE AMPUDIA. 

Sr. General-in-Chief of the U. S. Army, Don Z. Taylor. 

To this communication, Gen. Taylor promptly replied as follows : 

' : Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

" Camp near Matamoros, Texas, April 12, 1846. 

u Senor : I have had the honor to receive your note of this date, 
in which you summon me to withdraw the forces under my command 
from their present position, and beyond the river Nueces, until the 
pending question between our governments, relative to the limits of 
Texas, shall be settled. 

" I need hardly advise you that, charged as I am, in only a military 
capacity, with the performance of specific duties, I cannot enter into 
a discussion of the international question involved in the advance of 
the American army. You will, however, permit me to say that the 
government of the United States has constantly sought a settlement, 
by negotiation, of the question of boundary; that an envoy was 
despatched to Mexico for that purpose, and that up to the most recent 
dates said envoy had not been received by the actual Mexican govern- 
ment, if indeed he has not received his passports and left the republic. 
In the mean time, 1 have been ordered to occupy the country up to 
the left bank of the Rio Grande, until the boundary shall be defini- 
tively settled. In carrying out these instructions, I have carefully 
abstained from all acts of hostility, obeying, in this regard, not only 
the letter of my instructions, but the plain dictates of justice and 
humanity. 

u The instructions under which I am acting will not permit me to 
retrograde from the position I now occupy. In view of the relations 
between our respective governments, and the individual suffering which 
may result, I regret the alternative which you offer ; but, at the same 



LTEUT. PORTER. 29 

time, wish it understood that I shall by no means avoid such alterna- 
tive, leaving the responsibility with those who rashly commence hos- 
tilities. In conclusion, you will permit me to give the assurance that 
on my part the laws and customs of war among civilized nations shall 
be carefully observed. 

" I have the honor to be, very respectively, your obedient servant. 

u Sr. Gen. D. Pedro de Ampudia." 

Orders were immediately issued, the execution of which prepared 
the army for an attack. The time, so momentous, was passing away, 
and the belief prevailed with many, that when the twenty-four hours 
had elapsed, hostilities would ensue. 

On the morning of the 13th, a brigade with Capt. Duncan's and 
Lieut. Bragg's companies of artillery, were ordered to occupy the 
" field work." The remainder of the army exposed to the enemy's 
fire was removed, and a camp established, supposed to be capable of 
holding out against the attack of a force four or five times as large as 
that which occupied it. 

The twenty-four hours elapsed, but nothing hostile transpired on 
the part of the Mexicans as a consequence. Rumors now reached us 
from across the river, that Gen. Ampudia wished to attack our camp, 
but was not sustained by his officers, and the citizens of the town. 
The construction of Fort Brown was now being efficiently carried on, 
and the arrival of Gen. Arista was next expected with great interest, 
from the fact that he was represented as an officer that had the entire 
confidence of his government and a man of integrity, who was well 
calculated to bring the singular state of things existing between the 
two armies to a peaceful termination or a state of actual war. 

On the 17th, Lieut. T. H. Porter, and Lieut. Dobbins of the Fourth 
Infantry, started from camp, with ten men, for the avowed purpose of 
discovering, if possible, the murderers of Col. Cross. This step was 
induced by a rumor that the notorious Romano Falcon, commander 
of rancheros or irregular cavalry, was prowling in the vicinity. About 
2 o'clock in the evening of the second day out, Lieut. Porter met a 
party of armed Mexicans, who numbered, as he supposed, one hun- 
dred and fifty at least, and who were engaged in jerking beef. Upon 
his approach one of the Mexicans snapped a musket at him, which 



30 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Lieut. Porter answered by firing a " double barrel." The Mexican 
then ran, and Lieut. Porter took possession of the camp, containing 
ten horses and a number of blankets. He then immediately mounted 
his men and started for head quarters. It now commenced raining 
violently, pouring down as it only does in tropical climates. After 
progressing for a short time, and while passing through a clump of 
chaparral, Lieut. Porter was fired upon, when he instantly ordered his 
men to dismount. The enemy continued to pour in a galling fire, the 
arms of our soldiers being almost useless from the rain. One of 
Lieut. Porter's men was shot down, when that officer himself received 
a wound in the thigh, and fell, exclaiming, " Fight on, boys ! Take 
care of yourselves." The men then retreated into the chaparral, and 
became separated into three parties ; but all finally found their way 
into camp. One soldier who concealed himself until dark, said that 
he saw all the enemy's proceedings. He stated, that during the fight 
the Mexicans yelled like Indians, and that as soon as Lieut. Porter's 
men retreated into the chaparral the Mexicans rushed upon that of- 
ficer and the wounded soldier, plunging their knives into their breasts. 
Thus fell a meritorious soldier, and the gallant Lieut. Porter.* 

On the 19th day of April Gen. Taylor received information that 
two vessels from New Orleans were off the mouth of the Rio Grande, 
with provisions and other supplies for the Mexican army at Matarno- 
ros, whereupon he immediately established a blockade, by ordering 
the U. S. brig Lawrence, with the revenue cutter St. Anna, to cut off 
all communication by water with that place. As soon as news of this 
reached Matamoros, Gen. Ampudia wrote to Gen. Taylor relative to 
the subject. The correspondence is singularly interesting, particu- 
larly Gen. Taylor's letter, portions of which are peculiarly fine : the 
whole is dignifiedly forbearing. Gen. Ampudia writes as follows : 

Division of the North,") 

Second Gcncral-in-Chief.y 

From various sources worthy of confidence, 1 have learned that 
some vessels bound for the mouth of the river, have not been able to 
effect an entrance into that port, in consequence of your orders that 

* Lieut. Theodoric H. Porter was appointed to the army October 5th, 1838, 
from the state of Pennsylvania. 



LETTER OF GEN. AMPUDIA TO GEN. TAYLOR. 31 

they should be conducted to Brazos Santiago. The cargo of one of 
them is composed in great part, and of the other entirely, of provi- 
sions, which the contractors charged with providing for the army un- 
der my orders had procured to fulfil the obligations of their contracts. 
You have taken possession of these provisions by force, and against 
the will of the proprietors, one of whom is vice consul of her Catho- 
lic Majesty, and the other of her Britannic Majesty ; and whose rights, 
in place of being religiously respected as was proffered, and as was to 
be hoped from the observance of the principles which govern among 
civilized nations, have, on the contrary, been violated in the most ex- 
traordinary manner, opposed to the guarantee and respect due to pri- 
vate property. 

Nothing can have authorized you in such a course. The commerce 
of nations is not suspended or interrupted except in consequence of a 
solemn declaration of blockade, communicated and established in the 
form prescribed by international law. Nevertheless, you have in- 
fringed these rules ; and, by an act which can never be viewed favor- 
ably to the United States government, have hindered the entrance to a 
Mexican port, of vessels bound to it, under the confidence that com- 
merce would not be interrupted. My duties do not allow me to con- 
sent to this new species of hostility, and they constrain me to require 
of you, not only that the vessels taken by force to Brazos Santiago 
shall be at liberty to return to the mouth of the river, but the restora- 
tion of all the provisions which, besides belonging to private contrac- 
tors, were destined for the troops on this frontier. I consider it use- 
less to inculcate the justice of this demand, and the results which may 
follow an unlooked-for refusal. 

I have also understood that two Mexicans, carried down in a boat 
by the current of the river near one of the advanced posts of your 
camp, were detained, after being fired upon, and that they are still 
kept and treated as prisoners. The individuals in question do not be- 
long to the army, and this circumstance exempts them from the laws 
of war. I therefore hope that you will place them absolutely at liberty, 
as I cannot be persuaded that you pretend to extend to persons not 
military the consequences of an invasion, which, without employing 
this means of rigor against unarmed citizens, is marked in itself with 
the seal of universal reprobation. 



32 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to assure you of my distinguished 
consideration. 

God and liberty! — Matamoros, April 22, 1846. 

PEDRO DE AMPUDIA. 
Sr. Gen. Don Z. Taylor. 

Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, Texas, April 22, 1846. 

Sir : — I have had the honor to receive your communication of this 
date, in which you complain of certain measures adopted by my order 
to close the mouth of the Rio Bravo against vessels bound to Mata- 
moros, and in which you also advert to the case of two Mexicans 
supposed to be detained as prisoners in this camp. 

After all that has passed since the American army first approached 
the Rio Bravo, I am certainly surprised that you should complain of a 
measure which is no other than a natural result of the state of war so 
much insisted upon by the Mexican authorities as actually existing at 
this time. You will excuse me for recalling a few circumstances to 
show that this state of war has not been sought by the American 
army, but has been forced upon it, and that the exercise of the rights 
incident to such a state cannot be made a subject of complaint. 

On breaking up my camp at Corpus Christi, and moving forward 
with the army under my orders to occupy the left bank of the Rio 
Bravo, it was my earnest desire to execute my instructions in a pacific 
manner ; to observe the utmost regard for the personal rights of all 
citizens residing on the left bank of the river, and to take care that the 
religion and customs of the people should suffer no violation. With 
this view, and to quiet the minds of the inhabitants, I issued orders to 
the army, enjoining a strict observance of the rights and interests of 
all Mexicans residing on the river, and caused said orders to be trans- 
lated into Spanish, and circulated in the several towns on the Bravo. 
These orders announced the spirit in which we proposed to occupy 
the country, and I am proud to say that up to this moment the same 
spirit has controlled the operations of the army. On reaching the 
Arroyo Colorado I was informed by a Mexican officer that the order 
in question had been received in Matamoros ; but was told at the same 
time that if I attempted to cross the river it would be regarded as a 



LETTER FROM GEN. TAYLOR TO GEN. AMPUDIA. 33 

declaration of war. Again, on my march to Frontone I was met by a 
deputation of the civil authorities of Matamoros, protesting against my 
occupation of a portion of the department of Tamaulipas, and declaring 
that if the army was not at once withdrawn, war would result. While 
this communication was in my hands, it was discovered that the vil- 
lage of Frontone had been set on fire and abandoned. I viewed this 
as a direct act of war, and informed the deputation that their commu- 
nication would be answered by me when opposite Matamoras, which 
was done in respectful terms. On reaching the river I despatched an 
officer, high in rank, to convey to the commanding general in Mata- 
moros the expression of my desire for amicable relations, and my wil- 
lingness to leave open to the use of the citizens of Matamoros the port 
of Brazos Santiago until the question of boundary should be defini- 
tively settled. This officer received for reply, from the officer selected 
to confer with him, that my advance to the Rio Bravo was considered 
as a veritable act of war, and he was absolutely refused an interview 
with the American consul, in itself an act incompatible with a state 
of peace. 

Notwithstanding these repeated assurances on the part of the Mexi- 
can authorities, and notwithstanding the most obviously hostile pre- 
parations on the right bank of the river, accompanied by a rigid 
non-intercourse, I carefully abstained from any act of hostility — de- 
termined that the onus of producing an actual state of hostilities should 
not rest with me. Our relations remained in this state until I had the 
honor to receive your note of the 12th instant, in which you de- 
nounce war as the alternative of my remaining in this position. As 
I could not, under my instructions, recede from my position, I ac- 
cepted the alternative you offered, and made all my dispositions to 
meet it suitably. But, still willing to adopt milder measures before 
proceeding to others, I contented myself in the first instance with 
ordering a blockade of the mouth of the Rio Bravo by the naval forces 
under my orders — a proceeding perfectly consonant with the state of 
war so often declared to exist, and which you acknowledge in your 
note of the 16th instant, relative to the late Col. Cross. If this 
measure seem oppressive, I wish it borne in mind that it has been 
forced upon me by the course you have seen fit to adopt. I have re- 
ported this blockade to my government, and shall not remove it until 

3 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

I receive instructions to that effect, unless indeed you desire an armis- 
tice pending the final settlement of the question between the govern- 
ments, or until war shall be formally declared by either, in which case 
I shall cheerfully open the river. In regard to the consequences you 
mention as resulting from a refusal to remove the blockade, I beg you 
to understand that I am prepared for them, be they what they may. 

In regard to the particular vessels referred to in your communica- 
tion, I have the honor to advise you that, in pursuance of my orders, 
two American schooners, bound for Matamoros, were warned off on 
the 17th instant, when near the mouth of the river, and put to sea, 
returning probably to New Orleans. They were not seized, or their 
cargoes disturbed in any way, nor have they been in the harbor of 
Brazos Santiago to my knowledge. A Mexican schooner, understood 
to be the " Juanita," was in or off that harbor when my instructions 
to block the river were issued, but was driven to sea in a gale, since 
which time 1 have had no report concerning her. Since the receipt 
of your communication, I have learned that two persons, sent to the 
mouth of the river to procure information respecting this vessel, pro- 
ceeded thence to Brazos Santiago, when they were taken up and 
detained by the officer in command, until my orders could be received. 
I shall order their immediate release. A letter from one of them to 
the Spanish vice-consul is respectfully transmitted herewith. 

In relation to the Mexicans said to have drifted down the river in 
a boat, and to be prisoners at this time in my camp, I have the plea- 
sure to inform you that no such persons have been taken prisoners, 
or are now detained by my authority. The boat in question was 
carried clown empty by the current of the river, and drifted ashore 
near one of our pickets, and was secured by the guard. Some time 
afterwards an attempt was made to recover the boat under cover ot 
the darkness ; the individuals concerned were hailed by the guard, 
and, failing to answer, were fired upon as a matter of course. What 
became of them is not known, as no trace of them could be discovered 
on the following morning. The officer of the Mexican guard directly 
opposite was informed the next day that the boat would be returned 
on proper application to me, and I have now only to repeat that 
assurance. 

In conclusion, I take leave to state that I consider the tone of your 



ARISTA'S ADDRESS TO OUR ARMY. 35 

communication highly exceptionable, where you stigmatise the move- 
ment of the army under my orders as "marked with the seal of 
universal reprobation." You must be aware that such language is 
not respectful in itself, either to me or to my government ; and while 
I observe in my own correspondence the courtesy due to your high 
position, and to the magnitude of the interests with which we are 
respectively charged, I shall expect the same in return. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. »/?., Commanding. 
Sr. Gen. D. Pedro de Ampudia, 

Commanding in Matamoros. 

The important events now thickening about the " Army of Occupa- 
tion," gave evidence that the Mexicans were awaiting their own time to 
make a demonstration. Gen. Taylor in the meanwhile was placed in 
a peculiar position. His orders from his own government, being pe- 
remptory, that he should act only on the defensive ; he was therefore 
compelled to remain quiet, while the enemy, knowing his exact 
strength and resources, could make such preparations, and bring such 
force as they thought proper, and at any time deemed most favorable 
by them for commencing the war. 

On the 21st Gen. Arista insidiously issued an address to the sol- 
diers of our army, which was even more cunningly worded than that 
of Gen. Ampudia's ; it was as follows. The original draft was found 
on the " 9th May" among Arista's baggage. 

General Arista?s advice to the soldiers of the United States Army. 
Head Quarters at Matamoros, Jlpril 20, 1846. 
Soldiers ! — You have enlisted in time of peace to serve in that 
army for a specific term ; but your obligation never implied that you 
were bound to violate the laws of God, and the most sacred rights of 
friends ! The United States government, contrary to the wishes of a 
majority of all honest and honorable Americans, has ordered you to 
take forcible possession of the territory of a friendly neighbor, who 
has never given her consent to such occupation. In other words, 
while the treaty of peace and commerce between Mexico and the 



36 OUR ARMY ON THE, RIO GRANDE. 

United States is in full force, the United States, presuming on her 
strength and prosperity, and on our supposed imbecility and cowardice, 
attempts to make you the blind instruments of her unholy and mad 
ambition, and force you to appear as the hateful robbers of our dear 
homes, and the unprovoked violators of our dearest feelings as men 
and patriots. Such villany and outrage, I know, is perfectly repug- 
nant to the noble sentiments of any gentleman, and it is base and foul 
to rush you on to certain death, in order to aggrandise a few lawless 
individuals, in defiance of the laws of God and man ! 

It is to no purpose if they tell you, that the law for the annexation 
of Texas justifies your occupation of the Rio Bravo del Norte ; for 
by this act they rob us of a great part of Tamaulipas, Coahuila, 
Chihuahua, and New Mexico ; and it is barbarous to send a handful 
of men on such an errand against a powerful and warlike nation. 
Besides, the most of you are Europeans, and we are the declared 
friends of a majority of the nations of Europe. The North Ameri- 
cans are ambitious, overbearing, and insolent as a nation, and they 
will only make use of you as vile tools to carry out their abominable 
plans of pillage and rapine. 

I warn you in the name of justice, honor, and your own interests 
and self-respect, to abandon their desperate and unholy cause, and 
become peaceful Mexican citizens. I guarantee you, in such case, a 
half section of land, or three hundred and twenty acres, to settle 
upon, gratis. Be wise, then, and just, and honorable, and take no 
part in murdering us who have no unkind feelings for you. Lands 
shall be given to officers, sergeants, and corporals, according to rank, 
privates receiving three hundred and twenty acres, as stated. 

If in time of action you wish to espouse our cause, throw away 
your arms and run to us, and we will embrace you as true friends and 
Christians. It is not decent nor prudent to say more. But should any 
of you render important service to Mexico, you shall be accordingly 
considered and preferred. 

M. ARISTA, 
Commander-in-Chief of the Mexican Army. 

On the same day a Mexican came into camp, and reported that he 
knew where lay the body of an American officer. A command was 



MURDER OF COL. CROSS. 37 



immediately despatched to accompany him, who found, in a lonely 
place, the skeleton of a murdered man. This was identified as the 
mortal remains of Col. Cross, more particularly by portions of his 
uniform, found near by. No certain information could be obtained 
as to the manner of his death, or who were his murderers. The story 
told by a Mexican seemed to be most credited, because it was proba- 
ble, and characteristic of his foes. This Mexican stated that Col. 
Cross was captured by Romano Falcon's band of lawless, yet autho- 
rised soldiers of the Mexican army — that after being taken he was 
robbed of his clothing, and the valuables about him, — a consultation 
was then held as to his disposition. The majority of Romano Fal- 
con's band, villains and robbers though they were, decided upon 
taking him as a prisoner to Matamoros ; but Falcon, enraged at this 
proposition, so different from what he had anticipated, dastardly killed 
him by a blow from his pistol. 

On the 23d a board of officers sat, to examine into the cause of the 
death of the lamented Col. Cross. The board reported, that after a 
careful investigation of all the evidence before them, they were satis- 
fied that he came to his death by violent hands, — that he was sur- 
rounded by a party of Mexicans and murdered. Gen. Taylor then 
issued orders for the interment of Col. Cross with full military honors. 



38 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER IV. 

The Mexicans commence crossing the Rio Grande — Col. Cross's funeral — 
Prospect of hostilities thicken — Arrival of Gen. Arista in Matamoros — 
His letter to Gen. Taylor — Captain Thornton's command captured — Parti- 
culars of his surprise — Death of Lieut. Mason — Communication with Point 
Isabel cut off. 

On the 24th news arrived in camp, that the Mexicans had com- 
menced crossing the river; that one thousand were crossing below, 
and two thousand above. Capt. Ker's squadron of dragoons was 
instantly ordered below to reconnoitre, and shortly afterwards Capt. 
Thornton, with his command, were sent up the river for the same 
purpose. Lieut. Steel, with ten men, was also sent out, but he soon 
returned, without having seen any thing of the enemy. 

This day was made sad by the funeral ceremonies attending the 
burial of Col. Cross. The flags of the encampment were all at half 
mast, as indeed they had been since his remains were discovered. A 
brigade of the Seventh Regiment, and a squadron of dragoons, com- 
posed the funeral escort. The son of the deceased acted as chief 
mourner. As the solemn train moved along the banks of the river, 
many eyes unused to the melting mood were then dimmed, and many 
a dark expression of vengeance was uttered against the perfidious 
Mexicans, who, like assassins, and not like soldiers, destroy their foes. 
The quick rolling volleys of musketry announced to the enemy that 
Col. Cross reposed in his final resting place. 

The prospect of hostilities continually thickened, and the reports 
of the crossing of Mexicans were hourly substantiated. It was un- 
derstood that an attack was to be made upon Point Isabel, with the 
intention of cutting off Gen. Taylor's supplies, and at the same time, 
from several points, attack Fort Brown. 

A party of Mexicans were to-day fired upon by our advanced 
pickets, when they precipitately retreated. Lieut. Lamed, who had 
been sent out to find the remains of Lieut. Porter, returned to camp 
without success, stating that he had met Lieut. Dobbins, who had 



ARTRTA'R LETTER TO GEN. TAYLOR. 39 

avowed his determination not to return to camp until he found Lieut. 
Porter's body. 

Captain Ker having been down the river as far as Barita, which is 
within a short distance of the mouth of the Rio Grande, returned, 
and reported that he could gain no information of the crossing of 
troops. Just at this time a parley was sounded on the Mexican side 
of the river, and a messenger was sent from Matamoros with the fol- 
lowing letter to Gen. Taylor : 

Mexican Army. 

The course of events since the annexation of Texas to the United 
States was declared, has been so clearly hostile to Mexico, and so 
foreign to the dignity and principles which the Americans have pro- 
claimed to the world, that we come to the conclusion that their policy 
has changed, and their moderation is turned into a desire of aggran- 
dizement, enriching themselves by humiliating their neighbors. 

The respect and consideration that friendly nations show to each 
other have been trampled upon, by which reason the justice and ex- 
cessive moderation of Mexico shine forth still more. Pressed and 
forced into war, we enter in a struggle, that cannot be avoided without 
failing in what is most sacred in man. 

Political discussions do not appertain to military men, but to diplo- 
matic agents ; to us belongs the part to act, without it occasioning any 
surprise that the troops under my command should not wait for any 
thing else to give battle. 

We Mexicans have been calumniated as barbarous, in the most 
caustic and unjust terms ; the occasion has arrived to show what we 
are, and I do not believe that in the troops under my command there 
will be any cause to confirm such suppositions, as they will cause to 
shine the feelings of humanity and generosity that distinguish them. 

For the first time, 1 have the honor to offer your excellency my 
great consideration. God and liberty! 

MARIANO ARISTA. 

Head Quarters, Matamoros, April 24, 1846. 

Directed outside. — Mariano Arista, General-in-Chief of the Division 
of the North, to the General-in-Chief of the forces of the United 
States encamped opposite Matamoros. 



40 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Such was Gen. Arista's official communication announcing his ar- 
rival in Matamoros, but evidently having the fear of Gen. Taylor's 
reproof to Gen. Ampuclia before his eyes, for not writing respectful 
letters, he enclosed the following private note. 

Sr. Gen. D. Z. Taylor : 

Sir : — I have just arrived in Matamoros to take command of the 
troops that the government of my country have confided to my care. 
Your urbanity, as well as the customs known among gentlemen, make 
me salute you with all friendliness, by means of this private commu- 
nication, assuring you, that since fate has marked us to be immediate 
opponents in the struggles in which our countries are just entering, 
that at least all the laws of courtesy which reign between generals 
carrying on a war between civilised nations will be observed, and that 
you will always find in my acts justice, love of humanity, and all the 
other qualities which make, in the present times, war less barbarous, 
and unlike those of the middle ages. 

I have the pleasure of offering myself with such motives, your 
affectionate servant, 

MARIANO ARISTA. 

Matamoros, April 24, 1846. 

Lieut. Dobbins returned without accomplishing any thing. Capt. 
Thornton's squadron had not yet returned, but was anxiously looked 
for. 

A report now reached the camp that Capt. Thornton's command 
had been captured. This created the greatest excitement, and about 
12 o'clock in the day two wounded dragoons, of Thornton's com- 
mand, were sent into Gen. Taylor by Gen. Torrejon, a Mexican officer, 
with a letter simply stating that, having no flying hospital, he could 
not attend to their wounds. 

The soldiers gave a very imperfect account of the action, and re- 
ported ten men killed, Capt. Hardee a prisoner, Lieut. Kane supposed 
to be killed, and the fates of Thornton and Mason undefined. New 
precautions were taken to avoid surprise, and meet attacks then hourly 
expected. 

On the 26th, at night, Capt. Catlett, with a Mexican guide, started 



GEN. TAYLOR'S DESPATCHES. 41 

down the river on his way to Point Isabel, with despatches from 
Gen. Taylor to the governors of Louisiana and Texas * 

On the 27th all was still doubt regarding the fate of Thornton, and 
the result of his fight, when a wounded man was sent in from the 
Mexicans. This man was sent from Matamoros, and bore a letter from 
* Despatch to the Governor of Louisiana. 

Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, April 26, 1846. 

Sir: — I have the honor to apprise you that hostilities have actually com- 
menced between my forces and those of the Mexicans, and that I have need 
of the services of a considerable number of volunteers. Four regiments have 
been called from Texas, but as there will be considerable delay in assembling 
them here, and as my further operations will require still stronger force, I 
have the honor, under the authority of the War Department, to call upon the 
state of Louisiana for four regiments of infantry, to be ordered into service 
with the utmost despatch, and for the longest period authorised by law. 

I shall communicate immediately to Gen. Gaines, and request him to give 
you every facility in the organization and equipment of these troops, and for- 
warding them to Point Isabel. I subjoin the organization of a regiment of 
volunteers, and respectfully desire that it may be observed, and that the 
number of prescribed officers be not exceeded. The battalions may be 
mustered into service at New Orleans, or at Point Isabel, as most convenient. 
I beg that they may be sent forward as rapidly as they can be raised. 

I would suggest that a brigadier general be commissioned to command the 
force called from Louisiana, and from my experience of his excellent qualities 
as an officer, I would be particularly gratified if Gen. Persifor F. Smith could 
be selected for such appointment. 

I cannot doubt that the gallant state of Louisiana will respond with alac- 
rity to this call upon the patriotism of her sons, and I feel every assurance 
chat no eflbrt will be wanting on the part of the state authorities, to organise 
the force, and have it in readiness to embark at the earliest practicable 
moment. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., Commanding. 
Hon. Isaac Johnson, 

Gov. of Louisiana, New Orleans, La. 



Organization of a regiment of volunteers : 

1 Colonel; 1 Adjutant, ) 

1 Lieut. Colonel ; 1 Quarter-Master, j" 

1 Major; with rank of Lieut.; 

1 Surgeon ; 5 Assistant Surgeons. 
And 10 companies, each to have — 

1 Captain ; 4 Sergeants ; 

1 First Lieutenant ; 4 Corporals ; 

1 Second Lieutenant ; 2 Musicians ; 
And at least 50 privates. 



42 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



Capt. Hardee, detailing an account of the action, and stating that 
Lieut. Kane and himself were in Matamoros, prisoners of war. Thirty- 
six of their men were with them, and all were well treated. Capt. 
Hardee stated that Gen. Ampudia had remarked that the Mexicans 
had borne the reputation of treating their prisoners barbarously ; but 
in that respect he intended to redeem the Mexican character. 

PARTICULARS OF THORNTON'S SURPRISE. 

According to orders from Gen. Taylor, Capt. Thornton with his 
command proceeded up the river, and after advancing probably twenty- 
six miles, and within a presumed short distance from the enemy's 
camp, Capt. Thornton's Mexican guide refused to go farther, and 
stated, as his reason, that the country was filled with Mexican troops. 
This opinion was confirmed by a Mexican met on the road, who 
stated that the enemy was encamped, two thousand strong, undei 
Gen. Anastasio Torrejon, within a short distance. Capt. Thornton, 
having but little confidence in his guide, kept on up the river, when 
he came to a farm house and plantation, fronted by a bog, and sur- 
rounded by a thick chaparral fence, except that portion which bor- 
dered upon the river. Capt. Thornton entered the plantation through 
a pair of bars, and advanced towards the house, for the purpose of 
making inquiries : his squadron followed in single file. As soon as 
his whole command had entered the enclosure, and while engaged at 
the house in conversation with one of its inmates, the cry of alarm 
was raised, and Capt. Thornton found himself surrounded by a com- 
plete army. The fence was lined with infantry, and the entrance of 
the field taken possession of, while a body of cavalry advanced upon 
him. These last mentioned he gallantly charged, and drove back ; 
but he did not succeed in reaching the opening in the fence. In this 
rencontre Lieut. Kane was unhorsed. 

Capt. Thornton then endeavoured to clear the chaparral, and turn- 
ing, charged it with his squadron, when the infantry with which it 
was lined, opened a destructive fire. Capt. Thornton's horse receiving 
a severe wound at the instant of making one of the most extraordinary 
leaps on record, bore his rider gallantly over the chaparral, and both 
disappeared. The squadron, unable to follow its leader, was rallied 
under a galling fire, by Capt. Hardee, thus placed in command, and 



CAPT. THORNTON. 43 

endeavored to retreat to the Mexican side of the river by going over 
the boggy front, and swimming the stream. In this he failed, for the 
banks of the river were impassable, and finding himself and command 
entirely surrounded by the enemy, and all retreat impossible, he ad- 
vanced towards a Mexican officer, and stated the willingness of him- 
self and the twenty-five men around him to surrender, on condition 
that their treatment should be such as is usual to prisoners of war, 
and in accordance with the customs of civilised nations. If such 
terms would not be granted, he expressed the readiness of himself and 
men to sell their lives as dearly as possible. This message being 
borne to the general commanding, and an answer giving the promise 
being returned, the command surrendered, crossed the river, and en- 
tered Matamoros as prisoners of war. The capture of Capt. Thorn- 
ton's command filled the Mexican army with extacies, and though the 
force opposed to Capt. Thornton was at least ten or fifteen to one, 
still it was considered a great and glorious victory. Gen. Arista, on 
receipt of the news, addressed the following letter of congratulation 
to Gen. Torrejon. 

This has been a day of rejoicing to all the Division of the North, 
it having this day been known of the triumph achieved by the brigade 
which your excellency so worthily commands. The rejoiced country 
will doubtless celebrate this preliminary of glorious deeds that her 
happy sons will in future present to her. Your excellency will com- 
municate to your brave soldiers that I have seen with the greatest 
pleasure their valiant behaviour, and that I await for the detailed des- 
patch to elevate it to the knowledge of the supreme government, so 
that the nation may learn the triumph of your arms. 

MARIANO ARISTA. 

To Gen. Don Anastasio Torrejon. Matamoros, April 26. 

On the 29th the comrades of Capt. Thornton heard, with a burst 
of joy, a statement from a Mexican officer, that Capt. Thornton still 
lived. It appears that after charging the chaparral fence, he cut his 
way through the enemy, and ran the gauntlet of a great number of 
shots, in the midst of which his horse fell, rolling down the bank, se- 
verely bruising him in many places. He recovered himself, and got 



44 OUR ARMY ON THE* RIO GRANDE. 

within five miles of the American camp, when he was stopped by a 
picket guard of the enemy, and carried into Matamoras. Lieut. Kane 
having escaped from the enclosure in which the party were surprised, 
was made a prisoner, and protected from immediate murder by being 
placed behind a Mexican cavalry officer : but even while thus pro- 
tected, the Mexican soldiers contrived to pick his pockets, and take 
part of his uniform, besides the spurs from his boots. 

Lieut. G. T. Mason was killed in the rencontre. Rumor has it that 
he engaged personally with Romano Falcon, singling him out at the 
commencement of the action. It is said that in the close contest he 
crippled Romano Falcon by maiming his hand for life. 

Lieut. G. T. Mason is remembered by his brothers in arms as a gen- 
tleman universally beloved j as a chivalrous, high-toned officer, full 
of the spirit of the valiant soldier, proud of his profession, yet unassu- 
ming in his manners. He graduated at West Point in 1842, and was 
assigned to a command in the First Dragoons.* 

The prospect of Point Isabel (which contained all the military 
stores) being assailed now hourly increased, and all intercourse be- 
tween that place and Gen. Taylor's camp was cut off. Fort Brown 
was nearly completed, and Gen. Taylor commenced preparations ne- 
cessary to enable the greater part of his force to march to Point. Isa- 
bel. Gen. Taylor gave his orders with great promptitude ; and though 
he seemed to understand perfectly his singular position, and the im- 
portance of each movement, he showed by every action that he was 
entirely confident of success. 

* In the ambuscade that resulted in the surrender of Thornton's command 
there were killed, one officer, two sergeants, and eight men, while by the 
capture nearly one third of the mounted force on the Rio Grande was lost to 
the army. 



BRAZOS SANTIAGO. 45 



CHAPTER V. 

Brazos Santiago — Incident in its history — Entrance in the bay — Point Isabel 

Don Roderiguez — His conduct — Retreat from Point Isabel — Col. Twiggs 
takes possession of it — Made a depot of military stores — Major Munroe takes 
command — Stirring incidents — Capt. Walker leaves for Fort Brown. 

If you would reach Point Isabel by the way of the sea, you must 
first pass through Brazos Santiago, which simply means, u St. James' 
inlet." The pass is as desolate a looking place as can well be con- 
ceived of. As far as the eye can reach, a barren sand-bar meets the 
eye, the sameness of which is only broken by the half-burned wreck 
of some unfortunate vessel blown ashore, in one of the frequent 
storms that ravage the Texian coast ; and, save on your left, there 
you see an embankment of perhaps a mile, that once stood up against 
the dashing sea, as a natural wall. You will at once be struck with 
the evidence, that at some stated time, the waves of the troubled ocean 
have swept over it, furrowing it with deep ridges and ravines ; such 
has been the case. 

But a few years since, and a small Mexican village, and a fort, con- 
taining some sixty soldiers, stood upon the u Brazos point." Two 
pieces of cannon perfectly defended the entrance of the inlet. On a 
terrible night, when the wind blew inland, driving ships before it to 
destruction, as if they had been paper toys, the sea itself, piled in 
huge masses against the bluff, until amidst the thunder and lightning 
and darkness, it swept over the frail barrier, engulphing village and 
fort, and their inmates, in the everlasting grave, and leaving, when the 
storm cleared away, not the slightest fragment to tell that more ever 
existed at the Brazos, than the present low desolate-looking sand-hills. 

The breakers are always rolling at the Brazos bar. There seems 
ever to be some troubled spirit in the waters and air, that throws about 
the voyager's craft, and makes the seaman cautious in his movements, 
The powerful labor of steam, in fair weather, sends in the vessel 
through the u pass," quite handsomely, if she be not drawing too 
much water. Once fairly in, you see Point Isabel some three miles 



46 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



ofi> quite picturesquely situated at the head of the bay. Your vessel 
turns suddenly to the left, and comes to anchor under cover of the 
sand-hills, leaving passengers and freight, to find their way to " the 
point," as best they may, in " lighters," or other shallow craft. 

Point Isabel is a bluff some fifteen or twenty feet high, reaching 
out into the bay, and falling back inland ; consequently it commands 
the country about for a great distance, particularly as you look to- 
wards Matamoros. It was, up to the 25th of March, 1846, the site 
of a small Mexican village, composed of grass-thatched cottages, made 
of reeds, or spars of wrecked vessels. Its population consisted of a 
Mexican by the name of Don Roderiguez, who was " captain of the 
port," and consequently had charge of the " custom-house," together 
with fifty or sixty idle inhabitants. It was then defended by Gen. 
Garcia, who had with him, it was said, a force of two hundred and 
fifty men, composed of infantry and artillery. Don Roderiguez repre- 
sented his class. He was a man who took bribes from those who 
exported goods from the country; took bribes from those who im- 
ported goods into the country; took bribes for not exposing his vic- 
tims. And in this way he empoverished the people, defrauded the 
customs, and was getting rich, while managing to send just money 
enough to head quarters, to let " the government" know that he was 
busy fleecing the people it should protect. He it was who, after " the 
delegation" of his own citizens had gone out to meet Gen. Taylor, 
first discovered the American fleet coming towards the Brazos, from 
Aransas bay, which, it will be remembered, appeared almost simulta- 
neously with our army at the rear of the point. Enraged at the sight, 
and judging rightly that his " occupation was gone," he set fire to the 
custom-house, a miserable hovel, and with the soldiers under Gen. 
Garcia, and the inhabitants, fled out of the bay towards Matamoros, 
by the way of Boca Chica, just in time to escape from our dragoons, 
under Col. Twiggs, whom Gen. Taylor had ordered, upon seeing the 
conflagration, to hasten to the point, and at which place Col. Twiggs 
arrived in time to save a few of the houses, but not to arrest the in- 
cendiary custom-house officer. 

Immediately on the arrival of the detachments of the U. S. troops, 
Point Isabel became a place of great business. The few Mexican huts 
that were left standing after the fire, were at once occupied ; and then 



CAPT. WALKER. 47 

commenced the erection of a variety of rude sheds and dwellings, for 
the accommodation of the " military stores" and the property of the 
sutlers who followed the army. The harbor was filled with vessels 
laden with the stores of the army, and of every possible size, that 
could enter it, while in the offing there constantly hovered a number 
of our vessels of war. 

For the defence of this place, Gen. Taylor appointed Major John 
Munroe, with two companies of artillery. Capt. J. Saunders, of the 
engineering corps, planned its defences, which were immediately com- 
menced after taken possession of by the " Army of Occupation." 

Nothing of startling interest occurred at this place until towards 
the end of April, when, through the dangers threatened Gen. Taylor 
at Fort Brown, apprehensions were felt for Point Isabel. Rumors 
were constantly in circulation, that large bodies of Mexicans were 
preparing to move to the point, with the intention of cutting off Gen. 
Taylor from his supplies. The Mexican force known to be about 
Fort Brown were continually making demonstrations towards Point 
Isabel, until all communication was cut off between that place and 
the army on the banks of the Rio Grande. During the nights of the 
27th and 28th of April the force at Point Isabel expected to be 
attacked, and every disposition was made accordingly. The masters 
of vessels in port were called on for their crews, and about five hun- 
dred men were furnished with arms, among whom were some fifty or 
sixty seamen. Small parties of Texians had previously arrived, among 
whom was Capt. Walker, of the Rangers, who w T as destined to occupy 
a prominent place in the stirring events that followed. Major Munroe 
expressed himself able to hold out with his reinforcements against 
any number of Mexicans that chose to attack him. At this time 
several teams that had started for Fort Brown, were compelled to re- 
turn ; and Capt. Walker, with a number of men, who had, on the 
28th, gone out to reconnoitre, were driven back to Point Isabel, suf- 
fering great loss. He stated, that midway between Point Isabel and 
the camp, an overwhelming Mexican force suddenly appeared, and 
many of his men, who were just enlisted, had scattered in confusion, 
and he was compelled to retreat. He was followed by the Mexicans 
until within a short distance of the point, where he arrived with only 
two of his command ; seven afterwards came in. Capt. Walker esti- 



48 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

mated the force he met at fifteen hundred, and thought many of the 
enemy fell in his engagement with them. 

In spite of the severe repulse Capt. Walker had received, he offered 
his services to Major Munroe to carry a message to Gen. Taylor. His 
offer was accepted, and on the evening of the 29th he started, and 
after running the most imminent risks of being captured, he succeeded 
in reaching Gen. Taylor's camp in safety. As soon as Gen. Taylor 
received Major Munroe's message, he determined upon a movement 
that would protect Point Isabel, and open a communication with his 
supplies. 



DEPARTURE OF GEN. TAYLOR FROM FORT BROWN. 49 



CHAPTER VI. 

Gen. Taylor, with the army, march out of Fort Brown — The Fort — Mexican 
account thereof — Mexican valor — Sorrow at not meeting Gen. Taylor — 
Bombardment commenced — Incident — Death of Sergeant Weigart — Mexi- 
can account of the first day's bombardment — Triumph of their arms — 
Bravery of the people of Matamoros — Additional particulars — Bulletin of 
Northern Division — Glory of the Mexican arms— Their future prospects 
with posterity. 

Accordingly, on the morning of the 1st of May, 1846, the main 
body of the " Army of Occupation" marched out of its entrenchments 
upon the banks of the Rio Grande, and moved towards Point Isabel. 
The Seventh Regiment of infantry, and two companies of artillery, 
commanded by Capt. Lowd and Lieut. Bragg, the whole under the 
command of Major J. Brown of the Seventh, were left in the fort to 
complete its works, and defend it if attacked. 




Fort Brown, and Grave of Col. Cross. 

As the army passed out, the banks of the river on the Matamoros 
side were crowded with spectators, to witness the departure of what 
they fondly thought were discomfited troops. The bells of the city 
rang, and the cadences of music showed that there was a gala time in 
its streets. A boletin de la Division del Norte was duly despatched by 
Gen. Arista to the city of Mexico, announcing the "retreat" of Gen 

4 



50 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 








1. Gen. Taylor's Head Quarters when he 


12. Garden. 


first arrived on the Rio Grande. 


13. Matamoros. 


2. Old Guard House. 


14. Plaza. 


3. Fort Brown. 


15. Fort Paredes. 


4. Flag. 


16. Mortar Battery. 


5. Battery of two Bombs. 


17. Sand-Bag Battery. 


6. Ferry. 


18. Mortar Battery. 


7. Lower Ferry. 


19. Batteries. 


8. Road to Point Isabel. 


20. Lower-Fort Mortar Battery. 


9. Fanques del Raminero. 


21. Mortar, or Country Battery. 


10. Island. 


22. Gen. Taylor's Head Quarters after 


11. Pond. 


taking Matamoros. 



MEXICAN BULLETIN. 51 



Taylor and his army. The soldiers left in the fort worked with new 
energy all that day, and the ensuing night, to strengthen its walls, and 
every precaution was used at the same time to repel hostilities. Major 
Brown assigned to each company a certain part of the work for it to 
defend, and gave to each man his place on the parapet where he must 
spring in case of alarm. 

The movements of Gen. Taylor were perfectly known to the 
Mexican army. Gen. Taylor's contemplated march for the relief of 
Point Isabel had evidently been promulgated in Matamoros, and the 
Mexican generals had conceived the idea of cutting him off, before lie 
had accomplished his object. Their preparations for such a purpose 
can be looked at through their own documents, as will be seen by 
the following extract from a semi-official bulletin.* 

" On the first of this month, (May,) at 1 1 o'clock in the morning, 
the general-in-chief left this place, (Matamoros,) to join the army who 
several hours before had left with the intention of crossing the river 
at a short distance from the camp of the enemy. In consequence of 
the orders given so that this dangerous operation might be performed 
with due security, and according to the rules of military art, when 
our troops arrived at the spot designated for the crossing of the river, 
the left bank was already occupied by Gen. D. Anastasio Torrejon, 
with all the force under his command. The enthusiasm of our sol- 
diers to conquer the obstacles which separated them from the enemy 
was so great, that they showed themselves impatient of the delay 
occasioned by the bad condition of some of the flat boats which had 
been very much injured in the transportation by land, and could not 
be used, as they would fill up with water as soon as they were 
launched. In spite of that obstacle, the work went on with such 
activity, and so great was the ardor of the most excellent general-in- 
chief, whose orders were obeyed with the greatest promptness and 
precision, that a few hours were sufficient to transport to the opposite 
bank of the Bravo a strong division, with all its artillery and train. 

" This rapid and well-combined movement ought to have proved to 
the invaders not only that the Mexicans possess instruction and aptness 
for war, but that those qualities are now brought forth by the purest 

* El Monitor Republicano. — Matamoros, May 4. 



52 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

patriotism. The Northern Division, fearless of fatigue and levelling all 
difficulties, ran to seek an enemy who, well sheltered under parapets, 
and defended with guns of a large calibre, could wait for the attack 
with indisputable advantage. With deep trenches, with a multitude 
of fortifications, the defence was easy against those who presented 
themselves with their naked breasts. 

" But Gen. Taylor dared not resist the valor and enthusiasm of the 
sons of Mexico. Well did he foresee the intrepidity with which our 
soldiers would rush against the usurpers of the national territory. 
Well did he know the many injuries which were to be avenged by 
those who had taken up arms, not to aggrandise themselves with the 
spoils of the property of others, but to maintain the independence of 
their country. Well did he know, we repeat it, that the Mexicans 
would be stopped neither by trenches, or fortresses, or large artillery. 
Thus it was that the chief of the American forces, frightened as soon 
as he perceived from the situation and proximity of his camp that our 
army were preparing to cross the river, left with precipitation for 
Point Isabel with almost all his troops, eight pieces of artillery, and a 
few wagons. Their march was observed from our position, and the 
most excellent Gen. D. Francisco Mejia immediately sent an express 
extraordinary to communicate the news to the most excellent general- 
in-chief. Here let me pay to our brave men the tribute which they 
deserve. The express verbally informed some of the troops which 
had not yet arrived at the ford, of the escape of the Americans ; in 
one instant, all the soldiers spontaneously crossed the river, almost 
racing one with another. 

" Such was the ardor with which they crossed the river to attack 
the enemy. 

" The terror and haste with which the latter fled to the fort, to shut 
themselves up in it and avoid a conflict, frustrated the active measures 
of the most excellent Senor General Arista, which were to order the 
cavalry to advance in the plain and to cut off the flight of the fugitives. 
But it was not possible to do so, notwithstanding their forced march 
during the night. Gen. Taylor left his camp at 2 o'clock in the after- 
noon, and, as fear has wings, he succeeded in shutting himself up in 
the fort. When our cavalry reached the point where they were to 
detain him, he had already passed, and was several leagues ahead. 



BOMBARDMENT COMMENCED. 53 

Great was the sorrow of our brave men not to have been able to meet 
the enemy face to face ; their defeat was certain, and the main body 
of that invading army, who thought that they inspired the Mexicans 
with so much respect, Avould have disappeared in the first important 
battle. But there was some fighting to be done ; and the Americans 
do not know how to use other arms but those of duplicity and 
treachery. Why did they not remain with firmness under their colors ? 
Why did they abandon the ground which they pretend to usurp with 
such iniquity ? Thus has an honorable general kept his word. Had 
not Gen. Taylor said, in all his communications, that he was prepared 
to repel all hostilities ? Why, then, does he fly in so cowardly a 
manner to shut himself up at the point ? The commander-in-chief 
of the American army has covered himself with opprobrium and igno- 
miny in sacrificing a part of his forces, whom he left in the fortifica- 
tions, to save himself; for it is certain that he will not return to their 
assistance — not that he is ignorant of their peril, but he calculates 
that his would be greater if he had the temerity of attempting to resist 
the Mexican lances and bayonets in the open plain." 

The first and second day after Gen. Taylor left Fort Brown, it was 
entirely unmolested, but on the morning of the third, and the 3d day 
of the month, the Mexicans opened on the fort, from one of their 
batteries, containing seven guns. The fire was immediately returned 
on the fort, and on the town : the consulate - flags being respected. In 
twenty minutes after the fort opened, an eighteen pound ball struck a 
Mexican twelve-pounder directly in the muzzle, knocking it off its 
carriage, and wounding those who manned it. A few moments after 
this incident, the whole battery was silenced. When the fire first com- 
menced, Lieut. Britton rushed into his tent, seized his rifle, and stepped 
out, instantly a nine pound ball passed through the tent, ranged through 
it, breaking the back upright pole, and passing through two other tents, 
buried itself in the parapet. The enemy, after the silence of their 
battery, commenced firing shot and shells, from the u lower fort" and 
" mortar batteries," but without doing any damage. At this time, a 
curtain, connecting the flanks of the north and east bastions of the 
fort, the one in which the gate was placed, was unfinished. To com- 
plete this curtain, the soldiers worked night and day, without any re- 
gularly appointed time for sleeping, and under constant fire. As the 



54 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

parapet rose, the men became more exposed, and the enemy took ad- 
vantage of it, directing their guns upon any point where laborers were 
seen. About five hours after the bombardment commenced, Sergeant 
Weigart of the Seventh was killed while at his post, by a cannon-ball, 
that struck him on the head. His companions conveyed the body to the 
hospital tent, which was on the south side of the fort, and deposited 
it on a cot, and but a moment afterwards, a bomb fell through the 
roof of the hospital tent, among a crowd of sick and wounded, and 
exploded, blowing off the dead man's head, tearing the tent to pieces, 
and yet not injuring in the slightest degree a living person. An inci- 
dent so strange, is hardly recorded in history. 

Such is the history of the first day of the bombardment. The 
Mexicans had their notions of it, and with promptness despatched 
them to " head quarters ;" they were as follows :* 

" But let us relate the glorious events of yesterday. As Aurora 
dawned, we began to fire from our ramparts on the fortifications of 
the enemy, and the thunder of Mexican cannon was saluted by the 
reveille from every point of our line, by the bell of the parochial 
church, and by the vivas of the inhabitants of Matamoros. In a mo- 
ment the streets were filled, and all were rejoiced to see at last the 
hour arrived, when we were to give a terrible lesson to the American 
camp, whose odious presence could no longer be tolerated. The 
enemy answered, but they were soon convinced that their artillery, 
although of a superior calibre, could not compete with ours. After a 
fire of five hours, our ramparts remained immovable, on account of 
the solidity of their construction, and the intelligence with which the 
rules of art had been observed. The same did not happen to the 
American fortifications, whose bastions were so completely demolished, 
that towards 1 1 o'clock in the morning their artillery ceased to play, 
and their fire was hushed. We continued to fire with activity during 
the day, without the enemy's daring to respond to us, because, the 
parapets under which they would shelter themselves being destroyed, 
they had not courage to load their guns, which remained uncovered. 
This result shows us of what in reality consists the exalted skill of 
the American artillerists. They have eighteen-pounders, and we have 
nothing larger than eight-pounders ; and yet the intelligence and prac- 
* From El Monitor Republicano, Matamoros, May 4. 



MEXICAN ACCOUNT. 55 

tice of the Mexicans sufficed to conquer those who had superior arms. 
Unequalled glory and eternal honor to our brave artillerymen. 

"The enemy, in their impotent rage, and before they concealed 
their shame behind the most distant parapets, had the barbarous plea- 
sure of aiming their guns towards the city, to destroy its edifices, as 
it was not in their power to destroy the fortifications from which they 
received so much injury. This wicked revenge, which only springs 
from cowardly and miserable souls, did not meet with the success 
expected by those who so unworthily adorn themselves with the title 
of savants and philanthropists. Their stupidity was equal to their 
wickedness. Almost all the balls passed too high ; and those which 
touched the houses, although they were eighteen-pounders, did not 
cause any other mischief but that of piercing one or two walls. If 
those who conceived the infamous design of destroying Matamoros, 
had seen the contemptuous laughter with which the owners of those 
houses showed their indifference for the losses which they might sus- 
tain, they would have admired the patriotism and disinterestedness of 
the Mexicans, always ready to undergo the greatest sacrifices, when 
it is necessary to maintain their nationality and independence. The 
glorious 3d of May is another brilliant testimony of this truth ; through 
the thickest of the firing, one could remark the most ardent enthu- 
siasm on all faces, and hardly had a ball fallen, when even the chil- 
dren would look for it, without fearing that another aimed in the same 
manner should fall in the same place. That, we saw ourselves in the 
public square, where a multitude of citizens were assembled. 

" The triumph of our arms has been complete, and we have only 
to lament the loss of a sergeant and two artillerymen, who fell glo- 
riously in fighting for their country. The families of those victims 
ought to be taken care of by the supreme government, to whose pater- 
nal gratitude they have been recommended by the most excellent senor 
general-in-chief. We must also be consoled by the thought that the 
blood of these brave men has been revenged by their bereaved com- 
panions. As many of our balls passed through the enemy's embra- 
sures, the loss to the Americans must have been very great ; and al- 
though we do not know exactly the number of their dead, the most 
accurate information makes it amount to fifty-six. It is probable that 
such is the case. Since 1 1 o'clock in the morning, the abandonment of 



56 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

their guns, merely because two of them were dismounted, and the 
others were uncovered ; the panic-terror with which, in all haste, they 
took refuge in their furthest entrenchments, taking away from the 
camp all that could suffer from the attack of our artillery; the de- 
struction which must have been occasioned by the bombs so well 
aimed, that some would burst at a yard's distance from the ground in 
their descent to the point where they were to fall ; every thing con- 
tributes to persuade that indeed the enemy "have suffered a terrible 
loss. If it were not the case — if they preserved some remnant of 
valor, why did they not dare to repair their fortifications in the night. 
It is true that, from time to time, a few guns were fired on them in 
the night, but their aim could not be certain, and cowardice alone 
could force them not to put themselves in an attitude to return the 
fire which was poured on them again at daylight. No American put 
out his head ; silence reigned in their camp ; and for this reason we 
have suspended our fire to-day — that there is no enemy to meet our 
batteries. 

" To conclude, we will give a brilliant paragraph relating to the 
contest, by the most excellent senor general-in-chief, as to the part 
which he took in the events of yesterday. He says thus : ' Mexico 
must glorify herself, and especially the valiant men of the Division of 
the North, that a force inferior in its elements, and perhaps in number 
also, and which required nearly two months to swell itself with the 
auxiliaries coming from the capital, should meet in an immense plain, 
defying the army of the United States, and the whole power of that 
republic, without their opponents, who could receive succor in the 
space of fifty hours, should dare to leave the fort to give us battle.' " 

"Bulletin of the Northern Division - , 

" Matamoros, May 4th. 

u From the news which we publish to-day, it will be seen that the 
Northern Division, so deservedly intrusted with the first operations 
against the North American army, has most nobly fulfilled its highly 
important mission. Not that we mean to be understood as consider- 
ing its task is yet fully completed, but we anticipate, before the end 
of the present week, to witness the total discomfiture of the enemy, 
who has had the temerity to answer the fire of our batteries : of those 



MEXICAN BULLETIN. 57 

batteries that gave them yesterday such abundant proof of that valor, 
so characteristic of the Mexicans : a valor rendered famous in a hun- 
dred bloody contests ! It were endless to recount all the acts of 
patriotism performed by the troops of the garrison, and the valiant 
citizens who shared in the defence of the city — they courted danger 
with that intrepidity always inspired by a just cause. 

" So rapid is the fire of our guns, that the batteries of the enemy 
have been silenced* But what is most worthy of notice, as showing 
the great enthusiasm of this place, is the fact that many of the inha- 
bitants, of both sexes, in the hottest of the cannonade, remained firm 
in front of the enemy, filled with enthusiasm : indeed, fear is always 
unknown to those whose mission it is to avenge an outrage upon 
the sacred rights of their beloved country. 

" From our account of the war, the world will judge of the great 
superiority of our troops, in courage as well as skill, over the Ameri- 
cans. It is indeed wonderful to witness the dismay of the enemy : 
rare is the occurrence when an American ventures outside of the 
breastwork. — There can be no doubt of this, that the Mexicans will 
be considered by foreign nations as the very emblems of patriotism-! 
How evident that they inherit the blood of the noble sons of Pelayo ! 
Happy they who have met with so glorious a death in defending the 
territory bequeathed to them by their fathers ! 

* Finding that our six-pounders affected little on the enemy's guns, owing 
to the distance, and wishing to husband our men and means, I ordered the 
firing to cease. — Major Brown's official despatch to Gen. Taylor. 

t Upon receiving the news of the Mexican operations on the Rio Grande, 
the London Times of 15th June, has the following: — 

" War between Mexico and the United States. — The despatches of Gen. Taylor 
are remarkable for their succinct energy, and the absence of those verbose 
and grandiloquent strains which we are accustomed to meet with in narra- 
tives of American exploits. He writes like a man of sense, skill, and courage ; 
and we have not the slightest wish to detract from the honors he has gallantly 
earned under the flag of his country. Whatever opinion we may entertain 
of the causes of this war, and the political motives in which it originated, the 
behaviour of the American general and his troops deserves to be judged of by 
a much higher standard than the policy of the government which it is their 
duty to serve. The conduct of the Mexican army on the contrary, demonstrates 
the inability of that government to protect any portion of its dominions from in- 
vasion; and it degrades the descendants of the Spanish Americans still loxoer in the 
rank of nations." 



58 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

" The nation with which we are at war is most savage in its pro- 
ceedings ; no regard being paid to the flags of friendly nations : even 
those usages and customs respected by civilised nations, to divest war 
of some of its horrors, have been shamefully disregarded. The enemy 
have fired red shot against this innocent city, and we publish it to 
the world in proof that, with all their boasted wisdom and liberty, 
they are unworthy of being counted among enlightened nations. 

" His excellency, the general-in-chief of the Northern Division, and 
his intrepid soldiers, are ready to fight the enemy in any numbers, 
and we are certain that our arms will be successful ; but the nation 
against whom we have to contend is excessively proud ; and it is also 
possessed of resources which may perhaps surpass those within our 
reach. Let us then make an immense effort to repel their aggressions. 
Let us contribute everything most dear to us, our persons, our means, 
to save our country from its present danger. Let us oppose to the 
unbridled ambition of the Anglo-American, that patriotic enthusiasm, 
so peculiar to us. Indeed, we need only follow the glorious example 
of Matamoros, that noble city, which will be known in future by the 
name of Heroic. Its inhabitants have emulated the examples of Me- 
namia, and Sagintum ; they have determined to die at the foot of the 
eagle of Anahuac, defend their fort whilst they retain the breath of 
life — this plan is settled. — The supreme government is making strenu- 
ous exertions in order to protect the territory placed under its care by 
the nation, and nothing is now wanting but for the people to rush in 
a mass to the frontier, and the independence of Mexico is safe." 



CAPT. MAY'S RECONNOITRE. 59 



CHAPTER VII. 

Bombardment — Point Isabel — Capt. May attempts a communication -with 
Fort Brown — Incidents connected therewith — Major Brown's orders to his 
men — Appearance of the enemy — Bombardment resumed — Mexican re- 
connoisance — Anecdote. 

The echoing reports of the cannon that opened on Fort Brown 
reached Point Isabel : they were listened to with feelings so intense, 
that our soldiers fairly ceased for a moment to breathe. The cannon 
ade continued hour after hour, and then the war was known to have 
commenced. 

Gen. Taylor was anxious to know how well the fort stood the 
bombardment, that he might regulate his movements according to the 
demand circumstances made upon him. The Mexicans now literally 
filled the country between the point and the fort : to communicate 
was desperate service. A command, presumed to be of sufficient force, 
was selected on the evening of the 3d, to attempt the wished-for 
communication. Capt. May, with one hundred men, including Capt. 
Walker and ten of his Texian rangers, was ordered to proceed within 
six or eight miles of Fort Brown, and to reconnoitre the country on 
the left of the road towards the Rio Grande ; then to take a position 
on the edge of the chaparral under cover of the night, and if he heard 
no cannonading of the fort, to send in a small detachment under Capt. 
Walker to communicate with Major Brown, and wait the return of the 
command thus sent in ; then to proceed to the position reported to 
have been taken by the enemy, examine it, and obtain their strength, 
return to Point Isabel, examining the country on the left of the road 
towards the San Colorow, and under no circumstances to hazard an 
engagement, as the especial service he was on was of the greatest im- 
portance. 

Capt. May left Point Isabel about 2 o'clock, and proceeded a few 
miles on his route, when he ordered a halt until dark. He then went 
on, and came in sight of the enemy's camp fires about 9 o'clock. The 



60 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



enemy was posted in a position formerly occupied by our own army 
as a camp, and known as the Palo Alto. There being no pickets out, 
Capt. May leading his command, by cautiously proceeding, got with- 
in half a mile of the enemy's front, circling them until he brought his 
party between the enemy's encampment and Fort Brown. He then 
protected himself and command from observation by the edge of the 
chaparral, about seven miles from the fort, and hearing no cannonad- 
ing, he ordered Capt. Walker, with six of his rangers, to proceed thi- 
therward, and if he found any portion of the Mexican lines near the 
fort, to examine their strength, and, if possible, to fire on some of the 
pickets, to give notice to those in the fort that an effort was being 
made to communicate with them. If successful, he was to inform 
Major Brown, that Gen. Taylor had ordered Capt. May to proceed to 
the position he then occupied, as he had heard the cannonading, and 
then to send Capt. Walker forward to learn the damage done the fort, 
and also, if its commander could maintain his position ; but not to put 
his information in writing, it being considered dangerous, as the risk 
of its falling into the enemy's possession was so very great. 

Capt. Walker having received his instructions, proceeded to the fort, 
which he reached between 2 and 3 o'clock in the morning. On 
his approach, he was hailed by the sentinel, and he answered, " Capt. 
Walker and friends from Frontone."* The troops of the fort at the 
time were lying behind the parapets. The instant Capt. Walker spoke 
his voice was recognised by the troops as that of a friend. The sen- 
tinel replied, " Stand, Capt. Walker and friends from Fontone !" and 
immediately communicated the fact to the officer of the guard, who 
communicated the same to the commanding officer of the fort. Major 
Brown then directed that the commanding officer of the party outside 
should come into his presence ; but that his armed party should re- 
main outside for further instructions. The instant Capt. Walker's 
voice was recognised, an officer inside the fort requested him to move 
his party from the position it then occupied, because the place where 
it stood was singularly exposed to the bursting of the shells sent from 
the town, as it was directly in the line of fire of the sand-bag fort bat- 
tery. Capt. Walker did as directed, and a guard of the fort then took 

# Frontone is used by most of the Texians as synonymous with Point Isabel. 



ADVENTURES OF CAPTAINS WALKER AND MAY. 61 

a ladder, let it down into the ditch, crossed over to the side on which 
Capt. Walker was standing, let him down into the ditch, and then 
moved the ladder, so that Capt. Walker was received into the fort, and 
in the presence of Major Brown. 

Capt. Walker communicated his instructions to Major Brown, and 
stating where he had left Capt. May and his party, he requested fresh 
horses, that he might meet Capt. May, so that the whole party might 
pass the enemy's lines before daylight. The horses were furnished. 
Walker and his party left the fort about 4 o'clock, with Major Brown's 
communications, and proceeded near where he had left Capt. May and 
his party, but found they had gone, and that the Mexicans were pre- 
pared to cut off his return to Frontone. He then returned to Fort 
Brown, reaching it at reveille, saying, that u the game was blocked on 
him this time, but that he would give the Mexicans another turn when 
it was dark." 

Capt. May and command had remained in their saddles waiting for 
the return of Capt. Walker, until about half an hour before day, when 
it became apparent that the scouts of the enemy had discovered them ; 
and as Capt. Walker had been absent six hours, Capt. May was satis- 
fied he had met with some difficulty in returning, and as his force 
was not strong enough to engage the enemy, and as his orders were 
peremptory for him not to do so, Capt. May determined to return ; in 
doing which, he passed down the enemy's lines, within half a mile, 
at a brisk gallop over the open prairie, continuing to bear to the 
main road leading to Point Isabel. When within twelve miles of the 
point, Capt. May found opposing him, across his road, near one hun- 
dred and fifty of the enemy's lancers. — Forming into line, he charged 
them and drove them towards the left and towards their own camp, 
pursuing them nearly three miles on jaded horses. Finding he 
could not come up with the enemy, and fearing an ambuscade, he 
wheeled his squadron about, and proceeded to Point Isabel, reaching 
that place about 9 o'clock. 

Capt. Walker and command remained at Fort Brown throughout the 
day. Immediately after dark, he started from the fort with his party, 
and proceeded on to Frontone, and by his superior knowledge of the 
country avoided the enemy who were everywhere in his pathway, and 
using every means to cut off his return ; they being, as it afterwards 



62 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

appeared, well aware of his office of messenger. Capt. Walker and 
command reached Gen. Taylor in safety, and brought the glorious 
news that Major Brown could maintain his position with such officers 
and men as were with him, against any force the enemy could bring 
against him. 

Major Brown, finding that the storming of the fort was not to be im- 
mediately attempted, allowed his men stationed at the exposed parts 
of the parapets, to step down from their assigned places, but to remain 
near and opposite, and ready to spring into them at a moment's warn- 
ing. On the evening of the 4th, soon after Capt. Walker left, the firing 
of musketry was heard in the rear of the fort, and within three or four 
hundred yards distance. It was supposed the Mexicans intended an 
assault. The garrison was immediately under arms, the batteries and 
defences all manned, and so continued during the night. 

At dawn of the morning of the 5th, large parties of the enemy were 
discovered in the rear of the fort, both horse and foot. Their left rested 
on a point of the river below the fort ; their right on a point above, at 
least a mile distant. This immense force of thousands was supported 
by a battery that had been erected in the night, and which was named, 
after it opened on Fort Brown, the " Battery in the Country." This 
battery, with those of Matamoros, opened at 5 o'clock in the after- 
noon, and kept up a galling crossfire of shot and shell, for about one 
hour. The firing was replied to by our eighteen, and six-pound howit- 
zer batteries, placed in embrasures on the south-east bastion. The bat- 
teries on both sides ceased firing simultaneously. About two hours 
after this, a Mexican by the name of Valdez, presented himself at the 
gate of the fort and was admitted. He stated that a party of American 
dragoons had been driven back to Point Isabel, (a Mexican's account, 
probably, of May's return to that place on the morning of the 4th,) 
and also that a party had been driven into the fort, (Walker's party, 
which attempted to communicate with Capt. May.) The Mexican also 
said that Arista's troops were becoming dissatisfied, and were desert- 
ing in great numbers, and that another revolution had broken out in 
Mexico. 

At 9 o'clock several Mexican officers, escorted by a party of cavalry, 
commenced a reconnoisance within eight hundred yards of the fort, 
while large bodies of mounted men and infantry were deployed in 



BOMBARDMENT OF FORT BROWN. 63 

sight. Lieut. Hanson, with a high degree of bravery, asked permis- 
sion of Major Brown to take the dragoons, and return the reconnoi- 
sance at closer view ; his request was granted, and he and his little 
party gallanty issued from the fort into the open plain occupied by 
thousands of the enemy. He rode with great boldness up near where 
they were busy establishing a battery, at the cross roads, behind 
which they precipitately retreated on his appearance. After an ab- 
sence of an hour, Lieut. Hanson returned, reporting the erection of 
this new battery. In the meanwhile our men were hard at work 
strengthening the defences. The enemy took possession of Gen. 
Taylor's encampment, that he abandoned on the 1st, and placed their 
guards along the ditches he had thrown up for its defence. 

On Wednesday morning, before the sun had fairly risen, a spirited 
fire was commenced from the lower fort and mortar battery. This 
continued about one hour, the shot and shell being well directed, 
burst in every direction within the fort, tearing the tents to pieces, 
and wounding many of the dragoon horses. The immense size of 
the field work, and the few troops left to defend it, although its weak- 
ness in case of an assault, was its strength in this bombardment, for 
there were no crowds of living men for the shells to burst among. 
The cannonading now became a source of considerable merriment 
with many of the soldiers, who were obliged to sit idly by and wit- 
ness its progress, for the scarcity of ammunition within the fort would 
not allow the fire to be returned, as it was deemed prudent to reserve 
the small stock until an assault was made. The following anecdote 
is characteristic of the spirit of the inmates of the fort at this time. 
An old soldier, who prided himself upon the goodness of his coffee, 
and the military precision with which he served out the morning 
beverage, was busy making some for his mess. He had just com- 
pleted the operation, and was stooping over to pour it into the cups 
of his mess, when a ball whizzed over the parapet, struck in the ashes 
near him, and overturned his refreshment into the fire. The soldier- 
cook gave the ball a kick, exclaiming at the same time, in a most 

dolorous voice, " There ! those Mexicans have knocked over 

my coffee." 

When Gen. Taylor left for Point Isabel he gave his orders to Major 
Brown. They were, that he must maintain his post, and on no ac- 



64 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



count risk his position by making a sally ; and that, in case he was 
surrounded, he must inform him, by firing at stated intervals the eigh- 
teen-pounders, which could be heard at Point Isabel. The fort was 
now surrounded, as Gen. Taylor had anticipated, and accordingly, at 
half past six, the signal eighteen-pounders were fired, at which the 
enemy, as if conscious that their reverberations were calling for relief, 
re-opened their two mortar and howitzer batteries in Matamoros, and 
a mortar at the cross roads in the rear of the fort. 



BOMBARDMENT OF FORT BROWN. 65 



CHAPTER VIII 

Gen. Taylor's orders to Major Brown — Signal eighteen-pounders — Bomb- 
proof shelters — Manner of escaping from the bursting shells — Anecdote 
of a dodger — Mexican on the look out — Major Brown mortally wounded — 
White flag — Correspondence between Gen. Arista and Capt. Hawkins — 
Infantry attack — Bombardment at night — Mexicans fired into — New bat- 
teries opened — Interference with music — Mexican forlorn hope — Excite- 
ment in Fort Brown — Distant cannonading — Anticipations. 

It will ever be a matter of surprise that so little damage was done 
to Fort Brown and its inmates, by this severe and continued bombard- 
ment. The magazine of the fort was very small, and the great mass 
of the military stores of the army was still at Point Isabel. It was, 
therefore, properly resolved by the officers in command, to expend no 
ammunition that did not " positively tell," reserving it for the con- 
stantly expected assault, which the enemy seemed preparing for, and 
which was looked forward to by those within the fort, as a relief to 
the monotony of the bombardment. Acting upon the principle of 
saving powder, after it was discovered that the enemy's batteries could 
not be dismounted, they being sunk in the ground, with thick em- 
bankments in front, the soldiers were ordered to make temporary 
bomb-proof shelters, which was done by taking barrels of pork for 
the walls, and across which were laid sticks, the whole covered over 
with several feet of earth. The bomb proofs were built at points con- 
venient for the men when at their stations. The different Mexican bat- 
teries were named, and when the smoke of the discharge met the eye 
of the sentinel on the look out, he would say, " sand-bag fort battery ;" 
the men would then retreat into the bomb proof protecting them from 
this particular battery. So also, if " the lower fort battery," " the 
battery in the country," or "the mortar battery," was called out. If 
a shell was coming, which was easily distinguished from a solid ball 
by its fuse, the soldiers would fall on their faces, and the otherwise 
deadly messenger would harmlessly explode upwards into the air, and 
meet M'ith nothing to resist its force. One tall private expressed great 
indignation at being ordered to run away from the shot and shell, 

5 



66 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

saying, that he did not like to run from any thing. He finally went 
to his commanding officer, and asked to be excused from dodging the 
shot. This permission was granted, and a moment after, whiz came 
a shell over the parapet, and down went the private's head. A general 
laugh ensued, but our dodger got out of the difficulty by saying, that 
he did not consider it safe to stand up against that particular shell. 

Near the mortar battery of the Mexicans was an unusually tall tree. 
The moment their batteries opened on the fort, an eagle-eyed fellow, 
with a spy glass in his hand, would ascend this tree, to gloat over the 
prowess of the Mexican arms, and every time he saw the men fall to 
avoid the shell, he would report them as being killed by its explosion. 
So it looked to him. In this way reports were circulated in Matamo- 
ros that our men were falling in scores, and a rough calculation was 
made, to ascertain how long a time would elapse before all the de- 
fenders of the fort would be destroyed, for the thousands that com- 
posed Arista's army intended, when that time arrived, to make an 
assault. 

After the cross firing, called forth with so much energy by our 
signal eighteen-pounders, had continued for three hours and a half, 
the noble-minded Major Brown, commander of the fort, with his ad- 
jutant lieutenant by his side, took his usual round to see that officers 
and men were at their posts. He stopped for a moment to^give direc- 
tions to some of the soldiers who were busily employed at one of 
the bomb proofs. Every instant the men were engaged in dodging, to 
avoid the ball and bursting shell. One of the latter, from " the bat- 
tery in the country," struck in the parapet, burying itself in the sand 
Avithout exploding ; a cloud of dust rose into the air, amid which the 
gallant commander was seen to fall, mortally wounded. He was im- 
mediately taken to the hospital tent, and while being borne in the 
arms of two of his men, he exhorted those about him never to give 
up the fort. His right leg had been shot off, exhibiting the torn mus- 
cles, and jagged crushed bones, to the pained sight of his command. 
Although suffering the most excruciating torture, he remained per- 
fectly calm, and said to those who were sympathisingly standing 
about him : " Men, go to your duties, stand by your posts ; I am but 
one among you." While suffering under the operation of having his 
leg amputated above the knee, which was most skilfully done, he con- 



BOMBARDMENT OF FORT BROWN. 67 

gratulated his country that the misfortune had befallen him, and not 
been meted out to a younger man. 

At this time large parties of infantry were seen in the rear of the 
fort, a portion of which endeavored to get near enough to use their 
muskets with effect; in this, however, they were unsuccessful. 
Mounted men were also seen with the infantry. But a few rounds of 
canister from Lieut. Lowd's battery soon dispersed them, killing seve- 
ral, as was afterwards shown. The bombardment now grew, if pos- 
sible, more severe than ever ; a continued shower of shell whizzed 
overhead, bursting in the fort, tearing up the earth, and destroying 
every thing that offered opposition. At noon the firing ceased until 
2 o'clock, when a few shells were thrown. 

At half past four, a parley was sounded by the enemy, and two 
Mexican officers, bearing a white flag, advanced towards the fort, and 
when within two hundred and fifty yards, were signalled to halt. 
Capt. Hawkins, who succeeded Major Brown in the command of the 
fort, directed Major Sewell and Lieut. Britton to go out, and receive any 
communication the Mexicans might have to make. This was accord- 
ingly done, and a communication from Gen. Arista to the commander 
of the fort was handed to Major Sewell, who requested the Mexican 
officers to retire to a short distance, and there await an answer. This 
message was given to Capt. Hawkins, and was as follows : 

Ejercito Mexicano, Division del Norte, -> 

General en Gefe. 5 

Se halla V. S. sitiado por fuerzas sufficientes a rendirla y ademas se 
encuentra a su espalda una numerosa division encampada que libre de 
toda atencion, valdra cuantos auxilios tenga V. S. esperanzas de recibir. 

El amor de la humanidad reconocido en el siglo presente por todas 
las naciones cultas, impone sin duda el deber de hacer menos crueles 
los desastres de la guerra. 

Este principio que los Mejicanos profesan con preferencia a cual- 
quiera otra nacion, me obliga a indicarle que siendo inutiles sus esfu- 
erzos, se rinda, para que por una capitulation evite la total ruina de 
los soldados que la obedecen. 

Asi me proporcionara V. S. el placer de cumplir con los sentimi- 
entos indicados de bondad y dulzura que forman el caracter de mis 



68 OUR ARMY ON THE.RIO GRANDE. 

compatriotes, a la vez que dare lleno al mas imperioso de los deberes 
que mi pais exige, por las ofensas que ha recibido. 

Dios y Libertad ! 
Cuartel General en los Fanques del Raminero, Mayo 6, de 1 846. 

M. ARISTA* 

There can be no doubt that Gen. Arista thought that the bombard- 
ment was doing great damage to the soldiers in the fort ; indeed, it 
seemed impossible that it could be otherwise, but his declaration that 
a the Mexicans observe, above all other nations," the claims of hu- 
manity acknowledged in all enlightened countries, was, at this time, 
most singular hypocrisy, even for Mexicans, for he knew, (as the 
Americans afterwards learned,) that in his ranks was a " forlorn hope," 
commissioned by solemn rites to murder the soldiers in the fort, as 
soon as they surrendered. 

Upon reading Gen. Arista's letter, which the bearers stated would 
be answered in one hour, Capt. Hawkins deemed its contents, (though 
imperfectly understood for want of an interpreter thoroughly versed ~ 
in the Spanish,) of sufficient importance to convoke a council, con- - 
sisting of all the commissioned officers in his command, and place 
the letter before them. The spirit of the message was understood 
to be a proposal for the surrender of ilie fort. Capt. Hawkins said 
that he knew there was but one sentiment on that point, but he 
deemed it right that all the officers should be represented in the reply. 

* Translation. 
Mexican Army, Division of the North, 



! 



You are besieged by forces sufficient to take you ; and there is, moreover, a 
numerous division encamped near you, which, free from all other cares, will 
keep off any succors which you may expect to receive. 

The respect for humanity, acknowledged at the present age by all civilised 
nations, doubtless imposes upon me the duty of mitigating the disasters of war. 

This principle, which Mexicans observe above all other nations, obliges me 
to summon you, as all your efforts will be useless, to surrender, in order to 
avoid, by a capitulation, the entire destruction of all the soldiers under your 
command. 

You will thus afford me the pleasure of complying with the mild and bene- 
volent wishes above expressed, which distinguish the character of my coun- 
trymen, whilst I at the same time fulfil the most imperious of the duties 
which my country requires for the offences committed against it. 

God and Liberty! 

Head Quarters at the Fanq.ues del Raminero, May 6th. 1846. 

M. ARISTA, 



CAPT. HAWKINS' LETTER TO GEN. ARISTA. 69 

The vote of the youngest officer was then taken, and so with the 
others in succession. The vote was unanimous ; it was to defend the 
fort to the death. The following reply was therefore prepared and 
despatched to Gen. Arista within the allotted hour. 

Head Quarters U. S. Forces, 

Near Matamoros, May G, 1846, 5 P. M. 
Sir : — Your humane communication has just been received, and, 
after the consideration due to its importance, I must respectfully de- 
cline to surrender my forces to you. 

The exact purport of your despatch I cannot feel confident that I 
understood, as my interpreter is not skilled in your language ; but if I 
have understood you correctly, you have my reply above. 

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. S. HAWKINS, 
Commanding U. S. Forces opposite Matamoros. 
Gen. M. Arista, 

Commanding Division of the North. 

The Mexicans, upon receiving Capt. Hawkins' communication, 
opened the batteries with more zeal than ever ; shell, six and four- 
pound ball were literally showered into the fort, for the men at these 
hostile guns had acquired precision by long practice. Those at whom 
these deadly missiles were aimed, were compelled, from want of 
powder, to look sullenly on, and no reply was made, except the m tit- 
terings of defiance in the rustling folds of the star-spangled banner, 
that still proudly waved unharmed, and against which this iron storm 
was principally directed. Towards sundown the regimental colors 
were displayed. This called forth discharges of musketry from them 
at eight hundred yards distance. 

So closed this most eventful day, — a day of most exciting interest. 
The sentinels marched their silent rounds, while men and officers at 
their posts, stole snatches of sleep while resting upon their arms, and 
expecting every moment to hear the rushing cry that presages the 
deadly assault, and which was now more than ever expected. 

The appearance presented by the bombardment at night must have 
been singularly grand. As the shells rose into the air, the burning 
fuses gave them the appearance of fiery comets, and at times so rapidly 



70 OUR ARMY ON THE> RIO GRANDE. 



did they fly, that streams of seemingly continuous, hissing light, formed 
magnificent arches from the Mexican batteries to our fort, -where they 
found a common centre. The continued reverberations of the heavy 
discharges, the constant explosion of shells, the sheeted flame from 
the mortars and howitzers, that in the darkness of night seemed 
bursting volcanoes, formed a picture of war at once sublime and 
terrible. 

With the morning light of the 7th the enemy's batteries recom- 
menced, but after pouring into the fort a large number of shot and 
shell, they suddenly ceased. About half past 7 o'clock a large num- 
ber of Mexicans were discovered in and around the Fanques del Ra- 
minero, and the houses formerly occupied by the guards of our Second 
brigade. Several rounds of canister and grape were fired into them, 
which caused them to make a precipitate retreat after throwing a few 
shell in return. The Mexicans had heretofore used shell made of 
bronze, they now used iron, which they fired at intervals until noon. 
It was at this time discovered that the mortar battery in the rear of the 
fort, had been removed to the city of Matamoros. About noon some 
shell were thrown, which killed four of Lieut. Bragg's horses, and broke 
the wheel of one of his caissons. Soon after all their batteries opened, 
and kept up a steady firing of round shot and shell, which continued 
for nearly two hours. By one of these discharges, the sentinel lost 
his arm, but the bomb proofs were so far advanced that the men were 
comparatively protected. Random shots were now fired from under 
the bank of the river, and the rear of the fort; it was evidently the 
determination of the besiegers to give our men no rest, and induce 
them to expend all their ammunition, our deserters having informed 
them that there was little in the fort. Orders had been given to return 
no firing more than eighty yards distant, and as the Mexicans never 
approached to within twice that distance, they elicited no reply. 

At half past two a regular bombardment commenced from all the 
batteries, howitzers, and mortars, which continued without intermis- 
sion until sunset. During this time a shell struck one of the tents, 
and entered a chest containing the instruments of the band belonging 
to the Seventh Regiment. These were entirely destroyed, and scat- 
tered in pieces about the fort. A barrel of molasses was similarly 
assaulted, much to the astonishment of the commissary, who saw the 






BOMBARDMENT CONTINUED. 71 

treacle thus divided out in a manner contrary to all " army regula- 
tions," and the rules of the mess. 

Such precision in firing had the enemy now acquired, that in this 
bombardment of six hours' duration, more than half of their shot and 
shell were thrown in the fort. 

At dark, the indefatigable Capt. Mansfield, with a small party, left the 
fort, and levelled the traverse thrown up by our troops when they first 
arrived on the banks of the river, and also cut down a large quantity 
of chaparral that served at times to cover the " sharp shooters" of the 
enemy. Every thing after this remained quiet until midnight. Each 
man was at his post, and anxiously awaiting the assault, when the 
stillness was broken by volleys of musketry, and bugles "sounding 
the charge." The firing then ceased, but in a short time recom- 
menced, and continued until daylight. 

Dn the afternoon of this day, in the plaza of the city of Matamoras, 
was drawn up a body of infantry, denominated the " forlorn hope," 
whose duty it was to lead at midnight the assault on the fort. To 
nerve them for the work, every passion was appealed to, and every 
prejudice consulted, — and it was urged that large numbers of the sol- 
diers of the fort had been killed, and that those living must be worn 
down and exhausted, it was therefore a most favorable time for an 
attack. Midnight came — volleys of musketry were fired, and the bugles 
sounded the charge, but — the brave defenders of Fort Brown were 
undisturbed in their vigilance under the parapets of the fort. 

If the enemy's batteries had been quiet for want of solar heat, they 
could not have commenced more punctually at sunrise than they did 
on the morning of the 8th. For three hours, without cessation, the 
" lower fort," and " sand-bag battery," poured forth a continuous 
storm of shot and shell, notwithstanding which, a little party ventured 
from the fort, and succeeded in burning some houses which stood 
near the banks of the river. At noon the bombardment was resumed, 
and kept up about two hours. Many of the soldiers began to show 
symptoms of being worn down with hard labour and watching ; na- 
ture was becoming exhausted, they grew indifferent about the explo- 
ding shells, and listlessly let them burst in dangerous proximity of , 
their persons. The heavy bombardment had hardly ceased, when a 
severe cannonading was heard towards Point Isabel; so sudden 



72 OUR ARMY ON THE. RIO GRANDE. 

did it commence, and so rapidly was it carried on, that it seemed 
like one continued volley of field pieces. The soldiers in the fort 
sprang as one man to their feet, and listened. The sounds of artillery 
continued to roll on the plain; a simultaneous shout rose from the 
men in the fort, that must have sounded in Matamoros more terribly 
than our severest cannonade, for it must have told the people there 
that those in the fort believed that Gen. Taylor was on the advance 
from Point Isabel. The enemy felt that shout, for there immediately 
commenced a severer bombardment than the fort had yet sustained ; 
and a new mortar battery having been opened across the river, west 
of the fort, made four playing upon it from different points at the 
same time. 

But our soldiers were now active, and they could scarce suppress 
their feelings ; for amidst ball and bomb pouring into the fort, they 
could, hour after hour, hear that distant cannonading, growing more 
and more distinct. It was too much. Gen. Taylor was surely driving 
the enemy before them, and in despite of the deadly missiles that rat- 
tled as a storm of hail over the fort, the men sprang upon the para- 
pets, and fairly silenced the thunder of the bombardment with their 
repeated cheers. 

The enemy's cavalry and infantry were seen above and below the 
fort crossing the river in masses, supposed for the purpose of rein- 
forcing the enemy. At 7 o'clock the bombardment ceased, the fort 
having received through the day three hundred shot and shell, with 
comparatively little injury. 

As the sun was setting a Mexican was seen running towards the 
fort with a flag. He stated that news had been received that our forces 
had come in contact with the enemy, and had driven them back towards 
Matamoros. He also stated that he was a prisoner in charge of the 
Mexican picket guard fired upon by the fort the evening previous, and 
that while they were carrying off the wounded and dead occasioned 
by the discharge, he had escaped. The inmates of the fort were now 
under the most pleasing yet intense excitement. They all felt that 
victory would perch upon the standard of their brave companions in 
the field, and that a brilliant era was advancing upon " the Army of 
Occupation." 



MARCH TO PALO ALTO. 



CHAPTER IX. 

The army leaves Point Isabel — Encamps for the night — Plains of the Palo 
Alto — Preliminaries of battle — Lieut. Blake's reconnoisance — Battle of the 
8th commences — Churchill's batteries — Ringgold's batteries — Duncan's bat- 
teries — Mexican charge — Repulse — Ridgely's batteries — Ringgold's — Dun- 
can's — The prairie on lire — Action suspended. 

Ox the evening of the 7th, Gen. Taylor, with a force of little over 
two thousand men, left Point Isabel for Fort Brown. Leaving the 
point under the command of Major Munroe, Gen. Taylor had with 
him, besides his troops, a train of two hundred and fifty wagons, loaded 
with stores. The coming night the army bivouacked seven miles 
from the point. Its march was resumed early the following morning. 
About noon our advanced guard reported the enemy were drawn up 
in front, to oppose the progress of the army. The long " train" was 
immediately parked, the main body of our troops continuing to ad- 
vance. 

The moment so ardently wished for by our troops was evidently 
approaching, and the prospect of meeting the enemy, though of a force 
so superior to their own, flushed with pleasure every soldier's cheek. 
Though they had languished with the fatigues of a severe march, and 
the brackish water of the prairies stimulated, rather than allayed thirst, 
yet the mass now moved with accelerated speed ; significant glances 
passed between brother officers, and the privates, in unsuppressed feel- 
ing, showed their anxiety to engage in the conflict. 

In the midst of this excitement, an officer passed to the rear, bear- 
ing the news that the enemy had withdrawn his advance, leaving the 
surmise that they had retreated. The beaming face and accelerated 
step of the soldier disappeared. The wagons were again put in mo- 
tion, and with slow pace progressed another mile. The country now 
began to open into prairie. On the right and left of the American line 
were seen ponds of fresh water, and immediately beyond them, cha- 
parral. In front opened a broad plain of three miles in extent, bounded 
by Palo Alto, or dwarfish mosquite trees, that struggled through the 



OUR ARMY ON THB RIO GRANDE. 

thickets, and overtopped, by a few feet only, the thorn and prickly 
pear with which they were surrounded. Word now came back from 
the advance guard, that upon this prairie were the enemy drawn up. 
The train was brought into a solid square, and our little army then 
advanced with buoyant step, until the heads of its narrow columns 
reached the open prairie. 

A scene singularly thrilling and sublime, now presented itself — a 
scene such as was never before witnessed in warlike operations. Two 
contending armies had met upon a battle field formed by an American 
prairie. Not a shrub, not the slightest hillock or artificial embank- 
ment of any kind intervened to offer protection, or give to either party 
advantage over the other. This battle-plain was broad enough for the 
most extensive operations, while the respective commanders could 
look over their troops in the contest, as upon a moving panorama. 

Our soldiers glanced across this richly carpeted prairie, and saw ex- 
tended before them the Mexican host. In its rear was just discerni- 
ble the wiry-limbed " tall timber" that has given name to the plain. 
Upon the extreme right was placed a division of Mexican cavalry, that, 
from the perfect level of the country, seemed to tower over the sur- 
rounding landscape. Their sharp lances were erect, upon which hung 
glittering pennants, as if in bitter mockery of their office. Next was 
placed the artillery ; then heavy masses of infantry, their burnished 
muskets glittering in the sun, and jets ot light playing with terrible 
significance upon their bayonet points. Artillery, infantry, and cavalry 
were placed alternately, the whole forming a living wall more than a 
mile in extent, of physical strength, of steel, and latent fire. The me- 
ridian sun poured down its rays upon breasts heaving witli pent-up 
emotions and fierce passions, soon to be called forth in deadly strife. 
Six thousand men stood there in battle array. 

The gallant little American army saw this front with eyes flashing 
with enthusiasm, and a proud consciousness of coming victory. At 
the sight, the regimental colors were stripped of their coverings, and 
amidst deafening cheers unfurled in defiance, and thrown to the 
breeze. 

The line of battle was now formed in the following order, com- 
mencing on the extreme right : — Fifth Infantry, commanded by Lieut. 
Col. M'Intosh; Major Ringgold's Artillery; Third Infantry, com- 



BATTLE ARRAY AT PALO ALTO. 75 

manded by Capt. L. N. Morris ; two eighteen-pounders, commanded 
by Lieut. Churchill, Third Artillery ; Fourth Infantry, commanded by 
Major G. W. Allen; the Third and Fourth regiments composed the 
Third brigade, under command of Lieut. Col. Garland ; and all the 
above corps, together with two squadrons of dragoons under Captains 
| Ker and May, composed the right wing, under the orders of Col. 
Twiggs. 

The left was formed by the battalion of artillery commanded by 
Lieut. Col. Childs, Capt. Duncan's Light Artillery, and the Eighth In- 
fantry under Capt. Montgomery, all forming the First brigade, under 
| command of Lieut. Col. Belknap. The train was parked near the 
! water, under direction of Captains Cressman and Myers, and protected 
by Capt. Ker's squadron. 

Then, thus in the presence of the enemy, Gen. Taylor ordered the 
soldiers to stack their arms, and by companies march to the ponds be- 
fore them, and refresh themselves with the luxury of fresh water. De- 
liberately, as if on a holiday parade, did they proceed to obey this 
pleasing order. After long and invigorating draughts, they poured 
from their canteens the brackish water obtained at Point Isabel, and 
refilled them from the ponds. They then returned in order to their 
respective places. The coolness of Gen. Taylor, and his consideration 
for the comfort of his men, as evinced by this act, cannot be too much 
admired. 

At 2 o'clock, the army moved forward in battle array. While thus 
advancing, Lieut. J. E. Blake, of the Topographical Engineers, passed 
at full speed the advance guard, saying u he was going down to observe 
the enemy's lines." He continued on, until within one hundred and 
fifty yards of them, when he dismounted, and drawing out his spy- 
glass, commenced a reconnoisance ; the boldness of which, called 
forth admiration from the thousands who witnessed it. While thus 
engaged, two Mexican officers, evidently under the impression that he 
had some important communication to make to their commanding 
general, rode out from the ranks to meet him ; Lieut. Blake observ- 
ing this, remounted his horse, and rode deliberately down the whole 
of the enemy's line ; then returning, he gave to Gen. Taylor, what 
was subsequently proven to be a correct account of the Mexican force, 
in both artillery, cavalry, and infantry. 



76 OUR ARMY ON THE itIO GRANDE. 

The space between the two armies was now gradually lessening, 
and soon the details could be distinguished. The tall, rank grass of 
the prairie, deadened the heavy tramp of the cavalry, and the lumber- 
ing wheels of the artillery 5 and the whole moved forward in such 
silence, that the rattling of their trappings could be heard singularly 
plain. A space of seven hundred yards only, intervened between the 
two armies, when the batteries on the right of the Mexican line open- 
ed, throwing their ball and grape over the heads of the Americans, 
and announcing, in tones of thunder, that the contest had begun. In 
quick succession the whole of their artillery, from extreme right to 
left, poured forth volleys of ball, which made the earth tremble, and 
filled the air with clouds of dust and sulphurous smoke. The word 
was now given for the advancing columns to halt, and deploy into 
line. When this was done, Lieut. Churchill's eighteen-pounders boom- 
ed above the surrounding din, announcing, in full-rolling echoes, that 
the Americans were " in the field." Major Ringgold's and Capt. Dun- 
can's commands were now ordered forward into the open prairie, and 
commenced their rapid discharges. A general cannonading now raged, 
unparalleled, we believe, in any light upon an open battle field ; Dun- 
can's battery, from its conspicuousness and nearness to our line, had 
often the concentrated fire of the enemy upon it. For two hours, 
twenty or thirty pieces of artillery rent the air with their thunders, 
the iron hail tearing up the prairie in deep furrows, and sending the 
dry dust in clouds into the air. There was but little precision in the 
enemy's firing. The missiles almost invariably passed over the Ame- 
rican lines ; far different was it with our own ; at every discharge, the 
sudden opening that followed in the solid masses, marked the terrible 
course of death where the Mexican cavalry bit the dust. The in- 
fantry, cool spectators of the raging battle, marked with eagle-eyes 
this havoc in the opposing ranks, and mingled their exulting shouts 
with the din, as they witnessed the prowess of their campanions in 
arms. The terrible eighteen-pounders rose ever above the tumult, and 
seemed as if keeping time in solemn sound, as at every discharge they 
sent their huge masses of crushing iron into the living wall at which 
they were directed. As the battle thickened, the infantry, now formed 
in our rear, grew impatient to participate in the fight, and the Mexi- 
can cavalry, by suffering so severely by our artillery, prepared for the 



BATTLE OF PALO ALTO. 77 

charge. The manoeuvring of the day now commenced — the time for 
cool courage, quick thought, and deeds of individual heroism had 
arrived. 

A regiment of Mexican lancers, commanded by Gen. Torrejon, 
moved towards our right, as it was supposed to gain possession of 
our train. The Third and Fifth regiments of Infantry, with a portion 
of Ringgold's battery, under the command of Lieut. Ridgley, were 
ordered to check this movement, and turn the left flank of the enemy. 
They, however, still keeping up an irregular fire, continued steadily 
to advance toward our right and front, so as to out-flank our line, if 
possible. Upon their near approach, the Fifth was thrown into square, 
with Capt. Walker, and twenty mounted men, on its right. Lieut. 
Ridgely having dashed forward, unlimbered his battery, and com- 
menced rapid discharges of grape and canister upon the enemy's 
artillery, causing it to retreat ; but the lancers, fifteen hundred strong, 
continued steadily to advance, in spite of all opposition, until the 
Fifth poured into them from the front of the square a fire so deadly, 
that the front of the cavalry recoiled; great numbers fell dead, and 
those in the rear, without pressing forward on to the bayonets ready 
to receive them, broke into confusion. A portion, however, re-formed, 
and kept bravely on, in the attempt to reach the trains, when Col. 
Twiggs ordered the Third Infantry to the extreme right, to cut off 
their advance, which, when the enemy saw, they commenced a retreat 
in good order, marching apparently by squadrons, when Lieut. Ridgely, 
assisted by Lieut. French, opened his batteries, scattering them in all 
directions. While Lieut. Ridgely was engaged in directing this fire, 
his horse was shot from under him, and the same ball probably that 
caused the death of his steed, alarmed the horses at one of his caissons, 
which sprang madly forward in front of the gun. Lieut. Ridgely, re- 
gardless of personal danger, rushed forward between the two con- 
tending fires, seized the lead-horses by the head, and brought them 
into their places, thus saving not only his horses, but the ammunition 
of his battery. During this time, Major Ringgold's batteries were not 
idle ; but, supported by the Fourth Infantry, kept up a galling and 
continuous fire. On the left, and in the advance, was Duncan's bat- 
tery, which, supported by the Eighth Infantry, and Capt. Ker's squadron 
of dragoons, poured forth a terrible discharge. The dragoons, who 



78 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

from tlieir elevated position could witness its effects, say that horses 
and riders were frequently blown into the air, and long openings were 
often visible, which it made in the solid columns against which it was 
directed ; notwithstanding this, the enemy's line remained unshaken. 
So rapid were these discharges, that the wiry grass of the prairie, that 
reached nearly up to the muzzle of the pieces, dried before the sheeted 
flame, and burst into a blaze ; the sulphurous smoke of the exploded 
cannon and musket-cartridges had already clouded the air, as if to 
veil the horrors of war from the clear blue sky above; but, when this 
conflagration took place, the very heavens were at times darkened, 
and huge masses of smoke rolled across the plain, completely ob- 
scuring our lines from the enemy's view. 



A BRAVE SOLDIER. 79 



CHAPTER X. 

Action resumed — New line of battle — A brave soldier — Capt. Page wound- 
ed — Ringgold's battery — Ringgold's fall — Mexican cliarge — Repulse — 
Duncan's battery, its movements — Close of the battle — The wounded — 
Council — Result — Gen. Taylor's despatch — Gen. Arista's despatch. 

Two hours had now elapsed since the artillery opened on both 
sides, when the Mexican batteries slackened their fire, and soon after 
ceased altogether. It was evident that their line, unable to withstand 
the shock of Ringgold's, Churchills, Duncan's, and Ridgely's pieces, 
were falling back, to form, as Gen. Taylor correctly judged, a new 
line of battle, under cover of the smoke. The eigh teen-pounders 
were now pushed forward, until they occupied the position held by 
the Mexican cavalry at the commencement of the action. As the 
battalion of artillery advanced, it came up to a private of the Fifth, a 
veteran in Napoleon's wars, who lay on the battle field with both of 
his legs shot off. He was one of the first that fell after the cannonade 
commenced, and after having escaped in the terrible conflicts of Wa- 
gram and Austerlitz, in the retreat from Moscow, and the battle of 
Waterloo, he lived to fall on the Palo Alto, by a cannon shot from a 
Mexican battery. As his fellow soldiers passed him, and noticed the 
blood flowing from his wounds with every pulsation of his heart, they 
stopped for an instant to sympathise with him, but the brave fellow, 
as his eyes were glazing in death, waved them on, as with his last 
breath he said, " Go, comrades, I have only got what a soldier enlists 
for." A few moments only had elapsed, since the air had been rent 
with the fierce discharges of the artillery ; now, the familiar sounds of 
the farm yard were most prominently heard. Twenty yoke of oxen 
were slowly wending their way over the battle field, dragging, with 
infinite labor, the two eighteen-pounders into their new position. 
The drivers yelling, geeing and hawing, and cracking their long-lashed 
whips as coolly as if at a ploughing match ; an American prairie only 
was large enough to give them room to wheel into battery, which 
having done, they philosophically resumed eating the long grass, 



SO OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

which occupation their labors had temporarily suspended. It is re- 
markable, that although ten yoke of oxen often extended a broad line 
to the range of the enemy's guns, not a single one was hurt. 

The Fifth Regiment advanced, and occupied the extreme right of 
the newly formed line. During these movements, the wounded were 
being carried from the field to the rear, the crippled horses of the 
Light Artillery were removed, and the caissons sent to the train to be 
replenished with ammunition. The Mexicans arranged their line 
parallel with our own, but better protected than at first by the cha- 
parral in their rear. A little more than an hour elapsed, when the 
action on both sides was resumed, the artillery leading off, our own 
being apparently more destructive than ever ; the firmness with which 
the enemy sustained it became a theme of universal remark and admi- 
ration. Capt. May's squadron was now ordered to make a demon- 
stration on the enemy's left flank, and try to drive in their cavalry ; 
that gallant officer had been almost a mere spectator of the day's 
proceedings, and now obeyed with alacrity the command to take part 
in the action. As his squadron passed the commander-in-chief, the 
enemy's batteries concentrated their fire upon it. May succeeded, 
however, in gaining a position for charging, but the enemy was in 
such force, that the small number of his squadron could accomplish 
nothing, accordingly, in obedience to instructions, he returned to his 
first position, and there remained until the close of the action. 

The sun was now rapidly descending the horizon, and the Mexi- 
cans seemed determined to make one great effort to silence, if possi- 
ble, the terrible eighteen-pounders, and Ringgold's batteries. To ac- 
complish this, they poured into them a perfect hurricane of grape and 
canister, killing and wounding numbers of the gallant Fourth, that 
supported them, among which the brave Capt. Page fell, severely 
wounded, a cannon ball tearing off the lower part of his face, and 
stretching him helpless on the ground. Lieut. Col. Payne, inspector 
general of the army, and acting as aid to Gen. Taylor, coming up at 
this time, begged Lieut. Churchill to permit him to sight these pieces, 
which he did with great effect. At this time the gallant Major Ring- 
gold was placed in a position to try all the qualities of his favorite 
artillery, and nobly had the successes of the day justified his high 
expectations; coolly, amidst the rattling hail that fell around him, he 



MAJOR RINGGOLD MORTALLY WOUNDED. 81 

directed his battery with almost the certainty of a rifle. His ammu- 
nition becoming nearly exhausted, he rode a little to the rear for the 
the purpose of giving orders to have his supply increased, and checked 
his horse in the rear of the eighteen-pounders, which were at the 
moment receiving the concentrated fire of the enemy. Several large 
shot passed directly over this battery, striking, and throwing up a 
cloud of dust, which had not dissipated, when Col. Payne heard his 
name beseechingly called by one of the soldiers, and looking behind, 
he saw Major Ringgold stretched upon the ground, his favorite steed 
plunging and writhing a short distance from him. Col. Payne imme- 
diately went to his assistance, and found that he was mortally wound- 
ed ; a six-pound shot had " struck his right thigh, and passing through 
the holsters and upper part of the shoulders of his horse, cut through 
his left thigh, in the same line in which the ball first struck him, ex- 
posing, but not breaking the bones." Thus terribly mutilated, while 
the balls were whizzing over his head, and striking about him, Major 
Ringgold rested his head upon his left hand, appearing more like a 
soldier reposing at ease after the fatigues of the day, than like one 
who had just received his death wound. So perfectly calm was he, 
that his face had not even lost its natural color; and, as his 
brother soldiers crowded about him, he waved them away, saying, 
they had work to do, and that they must go ahead ; he then re- 
moved, with his right hand, the chain from his neck, to which 
was attached his watch, and handing it to Col. Payne, said, " Give 
that to my sister ;" and after taking out his purse, and making the 
same request, he appeared to have closed his connection with the 
world, and calmly to await his death. 

In the mean time, the battalion of artillery under Lieut. Col. Childs, 
had been brought up to support the artillery on our right. A strong 
demonstration of cavalry was now made by the enemy against this 
part of the line, and the column continued to advance under a severe 
fire from our eighteen-pounders. The battalion was formed into 
square, and held ready to receive the charge, but when the advancing 
squadrons were within a close range, a deadly fire of canister from 
the eighteen-pounders dispersed them. A brisk fire of small arms 
was now opened on the square, by which one officer, — Lieut. Luther, 
of the Second Artillery, was wounded ; but a well-directed volley from 

6 



8S OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



the front of Col. Childs' battalion, silenced all farther firing from the 
enemy's left. 

The battle of Palo Alto was now drawing to a close ; the Mexican 
army had withstood, for hours, the severe cannonading of our batteries, 
and accomplished much to elevate them, as soldiers, in the eyes of 
the world ; but their fire was gradually slackening ; solitary discharges 
of cannon alone were heard, and the line was slowly falling back into 
the chaparral. Gen. Arista seemed determined, however, to make one 
more effort to gain our rear, and possess himself of the stores and 
ammunition, and the events that now followed were worthy to close 
the successes of the day. Throughout, the battle had been one of 
artillery, and the artillery made the last great and brilliant demonstra- 
tion. While the enemy was pouring in their fire upon Ringgold's 
and Churchill's batteries, on our right, Capt. Duncan was quietly re- 
pairing the injuries his batteries had sustained, and replenishing his 
caissons from the train. When this was done, he limbered up, and 
according to orders, dashed down to the right of our line, to aid in 
silencing the enemy's fire, so destructive to the Fourth Infantry, and 
Col. Childs' battalion. The smoke still rolled in huge masses over 
the plain ; in fact, the growing coolness of the night air was driving it 
downwards to the earth, and obscuring the enemy's lines, when a 
slight breeze for an instant lifted this impenetrable veil, and exposed 
to Capt. Duncan's view the enemy, who were rapidly moving the 
entire infantry and cavalry of their right wing upon our train, which 
was now in the rear of the left of our line of battle. Capt. Duncan 
promptly communicated to the commanding officer this daring ma- 
noeuvre of the enemy, who ordered him to proceed with all possible 
despatch to the threatened point, and hold the enemy in check until 
the Eighth Infantry could come up to his support. Under cover of 
the smoke, which now favored this movement, Capt. Duncan, sup- 
ported in succession by the Eighth Infantry and Capt. Ker's dragoons, 
dashed back at full speed beyond his original position, and past the 
burning prairie, until he arrived in full view of the enemy. So sudden 
and unexpected was this movement to the enemy, (who but a moment 
before had seen Duncan's battery disappear behind the smoke in an 
opposite direction,) that the immense column of advancing cavalry 
under command of Col. Don Cavetano Montero halted before a shot 



CLOSE OF THE BATTLE. 83 

had been fired, or a gun imlimbered. A strong body of their infantry, 
supported by two squares of cavalry, debouched from the extreme 
right front of the chaparral, and moved steadily forward to the attack \ 
nothing could exceed the pomp with which the infantry advanced ; 
the grand band of the army was at its head, pouring forth a volume 
of proud defiance and anticipation of coming victory. Suddenly the 
right section of Duncan's battery opened with canister and shell. 
At the first discharge the musicians were completely annihilated ; a 
shell exploded among them, piling them in one promiscuous heap of 
frightfully wounded and dead : their instruments were rent as if of 
paper. At each successive discharge, the havoc was fearful ; but those 
who escaped for a time, closed in and moved on ; but finally the ad- 
vancing foot and horse fell back in disorder to the bushes. The 
other section of the battery now played upon the cavalry that had 
halted upon the right of the guns, as before mentioned. Although 
the shots were well delivered, each one making an opening through 
the entire squadron, this part of the Mexican line remained unbroken. 
The columns of horse and foot which had been driven back into the 
chaparral re-formed, and moved forward with great regularity to renew 
the attack : after advancing about one hundred yards, Duncan's battery 
again opened, and drove them back pell mell to the bushes, when 
they commenced a precipitate and confused retreat, rushing against 
the head of the columns that had hitherto remained firm under our 
shot. Squadron after squadron followed, until the entire right wing 
was in full retreat. Both sections of the battery were brought to bear 
upon the flying columns, until they disappeared into the chaparral, 
and the darkness of approaching night obscured both friend and foe. 

The excitement of the contest gone, our soldiers sunk in their har- 
ness upon the battle field, and from fatigue and exhaustion, fell asleep. 
The artillerists reposed between the wheels of their well-used pieces, 
which remained hitched up — nature gave way, and could not sustain 
the men through the labors required by discipline, to prepare them 
properly for repose. The dragoons all night kept watch; in their 
extended circle, they rode among heaps of the Mexican dead, and 
heard from the dense chaparral the groans of the mortally wounded, 
as they breathed their last. Palo Alto also witnessed that. night, a 
scene which finds a parallel, in the after-part of every battle. By the 



84 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

flickering light of torches, <he medical staff were busy in binding up 
bleeding and ghastly wounds, amputating shattered limbs, and other- 
wise performing their delicate offices, so sacred in the eyes of huma- 
nity, but the value of which is often overlooked amid the brilliant 
achievements of the battle field. 

The officers, after performing their respective duties for the night, 
rested from their arduous labors, but felt no inclination to repose. 
Uncertainty hung over the events of the coming day; it was felt that 
the " tug of war" was yet to come — that the Mexicans would make 
their last stand not probably in the open field, but with the advantages 
of protected position, and with increased strength, for straggling Mexi- 
cans had been picked up, who severally affirmed that the thousands 
already in the field, had received great accessions from the surround- 
ing country. To some, it seemed an unequal conflict for our little army 
to meet, without reinforcements, the formidable force of Palo Alto, 
with fresh and vigorous troops added thereto, equal in number to our 
entire force ; and that discretion, which is a part of true valor, sug- 
gested the propriety of holding a war-council upon the battle field. 
Gen. Taylor was appealed to on the subject; he promptly assented to 
a council, if such was the wish of the officers. 

It formed a memorable scene, when the commanders of Palo Alto 
assembled, and by the light of the torch, consulted together as bro- 
thers, upon the future, and united their spirits, as one man, to sustain 
the honor of American arms. It was with eloquent earnestness, that 
Ridgely dwelt upon the certainty of coming victory, if the enemy 
again dared to meet them in the field ; and it was with a force as over- 
powering as a discharge from his own battery, that Duncan declared 
the defeat of a Mexican army, of whatever strength, that would dis- 
pute the progress of his brave companions, in their onward march. 
The young officers, warmed by enthusiasm, and wearing wreaths of 
glory, plucked in the battle but just ended, thus spoke ; while the 
noble, gray-haired Mcintosh, who represented the heroes who had 
won honors in an earlier day, sanctioned the high-souled breathings 
of his younger brothers in arms. The vote was taken, and declared, 
without a dissenting voice, " We will go ahead." 

While this council was being held, Gen. Taylor, in his tent, was 
preparing the following despatch, remarkable not only for its brevity, 



GEN. TAYLOR'S DESPATCH. 85 

and modest recapitulation of most brilliant events, but also for dis- 
playing a trait of character he has shown through life ; that of perfect 
confidence in his own resources, and unconsciousness of the possi- 
bility of successful opposition ; for in it, he declares it to be his con- 
viction, that the enemy had crossed the river, leaving the road open 
before him to Fort Brown. 

Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp at Palo Mo, Texas, May 9, 1S4G. 

Sir : — I have the honor to report that I was met near this place yes- 
terday, on my march from Point Isabel, by the Mexican forces, and 
after an action of about five hours, dislodged them from their position, 
and encamped upon the field. Our artillery, consisting of two eighteen- 
pounders and two light batteries, was the arm chiefly engaged, and to 
the excellent manner in which it was manoeuvred and served, is our 
success mainly due. 

The strength of the enemy is believed to have been about six thou- 
sand men, with seven pieces of artillery, and eight hundred cavalry. 
His loss is probably at least one hundred killed. Our strength did 
not exceed, all told, twenty-three hundred, while our loss was com- 
paratively trifling — four men killed, three officers and thirty-seven 
men wounded, several of the latter mortally. I regret to say that 
Major Ringgold, Third Artillery, and Capt. Page, Fourth Infantry, are 
severely wounded ; Lieut. Luther, Second Artillery, slightly so. 

The enemy has fallen back, and it is believed has repassed the 
river. I have advanced parties now thrown forward in his direction, 
and shall move the main body immediately. 

In the haste of this first report, I can only say that the officers and 
men behaved in the most admirable manner throughout the action. I 
shall have the pleasure of making a more detailed report, when those 
of the different commanders shall be received. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. .#., Commanding. 

The Adjutant General U. S. Army, 

Washington, D. C. 

Far different was the tenor of Gen. Arista's official document, 
written nearly simultaneously with that of Gen. Taylor. It was 



86 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Arista's object to conceal the truth, and under the guise of contra- 
dictory, but high-sounding assertions, to give the superficial thinkers 
among his own countrymen, the idea that he was victorious. This 
despatch is interesting, because it gives the battle of Palo Alto as re- 
ceived by Mexican eyes ; and also for its studied expressions, so art- 
fully worded to deceive. 

Gexeral-ix-Chief, 

Most Excellent Sir : — Constant in my purpose of preventing 
Gen. Taylor from uniting the forces which he brought from the 
Fronton of Sante Isabel, with those which he left fortified opposite 
Matamoros, I moved this day from the Fanques del Raminero, whence 
I despatched my last extraordinary courier, and took the direction of 
Palo Alto, as soon as my spies informed me that the enemy had left 
Fronton, with the determination of introducing into his fort wagons 
loaded with provisions and heavy artillery. 

I arrived opposite Palo Alto about 1 o'clock, and observed that the 
enemy was entering that position. 

With all my forces, I established the line of battle in a great plain, 
my right resting upon an elevation, and my left on a slough of diffi- 
cult passage. 

Scarcely was the first cannon fired, when there arrived Gen. D. 
Pedro de Ampudia, second in command, whom I had ordered to join 
me after having covered the points which might serve to besiege the 
enemy in the forts opposite Matamoros. 

The forces under my orders amounted to three thousand men, and 
twelve pieces of artillery; those of the invaders were three thousand, 
rather less than more, and were superior in artillery, since they had 
twenty pieces of the calibre of sixteen and eighteen pounds. 

The battle commenced so ardently, that the fire of cannon did not 
cease a single moment. In the course of it, the enemy wished to 
follow the road towards Matamoros, to raise the siege of his troops ; 
with which object he fired the grass, and formed in front of his line 
of battle a smoke so thick, that he succeeded in covering himself 
from our view, but by means of manoeuvres this was twice embar- 
rassed. 

Gen. Taylor maintained his attack rather defensively than ofTen- 



GEN. ARISTA'S DESPATCH. 87 

sively, employing his best arm, which is artillery, protected by half 
of the infantry, and all of his cavalry, — keeping the remainder forti- 
fied in the ravine, about two thousand yards from the field of battle. 

I was anxious for the charge, because the fire of cannon did much 
damage in our ranks, and I instructed Gen. D. Anastasio Torrejon to 
execute it with the greater part of the cavalry, by our left flank, while 
one should be executed at the same time by our right flank, with 
some columns of infantry, and the remainder of that arm [cavalry.] 

I was waiting the moment when that general should execute the 
charge, and the effect of it should begin to be seen, in order to give 
the impulse on the right ; but he was checked by a fire of the enemy, 
which defended a slough that embarrassed the attack. 

Some battalions, becoming impatient by the loss which they suf- 
fered, fell into disorder, demanding to advance or fall back. I imme- 
diately caused them to charge with a column of cavalry, under the 
command of Col. D. Cayetano Montero; the result of this operation 
being that the dispersed corps repaired their fault as far as possible, 
marching towards the enemy, who, in consequence of his distance, 
was enabled to fall back upon his reserve, and night coming on, the 
battle was concluded, — the field remaining for our arms. 

Every suitable measure was then adopted, and the division took up 
a more concentrated curve in the same scene of action. 

The combat was long and bloody, which may be estimated from 
the calculations made by the commandant general of artillery, Gen. 
D. Thomas Requena, who assures me that the enemy threw about 
three thousand cannon shots from two in the afternoon, when the 
battle commenced, until seven at night, when it terminated, — six 
hundred and fifty being fired on our side. 

The national arms shone forth, since they did not yield a hand's- 
breadth of ground, notwithstanding the superiority in artillery of the 
enemy, who suffered much damage. 

Our troops have to lament the loss of two hundred and fifty-two 
men dispersed, wounded, and killed, — the last worthy of national 
recollection and gratitude for the intrepidity with which they died 
fighting for the most sacred of causes. 

Will your excellency please with this note to report to his excel- 
lency the President, representing to him that I will take care to give 



88 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



a circumstantial account of this deed of arms ; and recommending to 
him the good conduct of all the generals, chiefs, officers, and soldiers 
under my orders, for sustaining so bloody a combat, which does honor 
to our arms, and exhibits their discipline. 

Accept the assurances of my consideration and great regard, 

God and Liberty ! 

Head Quarters, Palo Alto, in sight of the enemy, May 8, 1846. 

MARIANO ARISTA. 

Most Excellent Sir, 

Minister of War and Marine. 



A DEAD CAVALRY OFFICER. 89 



CHAPTER XL 

Morning of the 9th — The train parked — A dead cavalry officer — Evidences 
of the battle of the 8th — Interesting incident — Advance guard under Capt. 
McCall — Fatal accident to Lieut. Blake — Burial of the dead — Evidences of 
a murder — Enemy discovered — Resaca de la Palma — Lieut. Dobbins — 
Ridgely ordered forward — The battle begins — It becomes general. 

On the morning of the 9th, as the sun rose and dissipated the smoky 
haze that had hung over the battle field, the enemy was seen slowly 
moving away into the chaparral, as if reluctantly leaving the Americans 
in possession of Palo Alto. Gen. Taylor presumed that the enemy 
might possibly dispute his progress towards Fort Brown. Forming 
his plans accordingly, he ordered the train to be strongly parked ; and 
throwing up an entrenchment, he assigned the artillery battalion, with 
two eighteen-pounders, and two twelve-pounders, not used the day 
previous, for its defence. 

The army was then formed into line of battle, and moved over the 
prairie, amid the strains of enlivening music, and the halo of the pre- 
ceding glorious day resting upon it. A short advance brought the 
army upon the ground occupied by the Mexicans the day previous, 
and the effect of the recent action began to display itself. One of the 
first objects that met the eye was the body of a Mexican cavalry offi- 
cer, who had been killed while in advance of his fellow soldiers. A 
cannon ball had struck the back part of his head, splitting it open, yet 
not disfiguring the face. His horse, by some extraordinary accident, 
had evidently been killed at the same instant with himself. There 
lay the soldier most gracefully reposing upon his steed, and both 
looked as if sleeping after the fatigues of a day's hard labor. It was a 
singular picture, where the calm appearance of life was counterfeited 
by the eternal sleep of death, which had not robbed a single muscle 
of repose, or given to the lineaments aught than plays upon them in 
the sweet dreams of innocence and youth. 

Continuing on, the evidences of the terrible havoc of our artillery 
increased. Not only the dead were seen, but wrecks of military ac- 



90 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

coutrements. Among them were gun-stocks, bayonets, and in vast 
heaps cartridges for musket and cannon ; while over the ground torn 
clothing and military caps were strown in most eloquent confusion. 
In the long grass beside the road lay a severely-wounded soldier. All 
night long had he suffered the excruciating agonies of his wounds, 
and been tormented by thirst. The poor fellow raised himself up, and 
showed by signs that he was dying for water. The sight impressed 
all who witnessed it, and the soldiers were ready, but for discipline, 
to have rushed to his relief. Upon seeing the distressed Mexican, 
Col. Twiggs involuntarily exclaimed, " Men ! the poor fellow wants 
water !" and full twenty soldiers stripped themselves of their canteens 
and threw them at the feet of the wounded Mexican. Once relieved 
from thirst, he begged for food. Col. Twiggs mentioned this, when 
a dozen haversacks of victuals were thrown beside the water, and the 
Mexican officer, gloating upon the relief he received, ate and died sur- 
rounded by the marks of the generosity of our troops. 

The army was now on the edge of the chaparral, and halted at a 
part convenient to water. Gen. Taylor then ordered the light com- 
panies of the First brigade, under Capt. C. F. Smith, Second Artillery, 
and a select detachment of light troops, the whole under the command 
of Capt. McCall of the Fourth Infantry, to move forward into the cha- 
parral and feel the enemy, and ascertain their position. Gen. Taylor 
then rode back to the train, accompanied, among others of his staff, 
by Lieut. J. E. Blake, of the Topographical Corps. While at the train, 
Lieut. Blake got down from his horse to take some refreshment, his 
labors having been very severe during the previous twenty-four 
hours. Having unbuckled his holsters and expressed his gratification 
at a prospect of a little rest, and threw them down, when, from some 
unaccountable accident, one of his pistols exploded, throwing the ball 
upwards through his body. He fell mortally wounded, and in a few 
hours, having expressed his regrets that he had not fell on the battle 
field the day previous, he breathed his last. 

The army now halted, its movements being dependent upon the 
reports sent in from the advance guard. The wounded Mexicans, 
who had been left on the battle field by the retreating army, were 
carried back to our hospitals, and treated with the same attention as 
its other inmates, while a great number of the dead lying in the parts 



MURDERED WOMAN. 91 

of the battle field occupied by our troops, were decently buried. Our 
artillery had literally mowed down the enemy. The eye could distin- 
guish where the infantry had remained in line under the fire, and where 
they had been struck in the confusion of retreat. And the dead horses 
scattered along the route, traced the sweeping cavalry. Far off to 
the left of our line, beyond the dark spot, made by the fired grass that 
was burnt upon the 8th, could be seen, undisturbed, and reposing 
beneath the morning sun, the terrible evidences of Duncan's last 
charge upon the advancing Mexicans. The dead that fell under that 
assault, had never been touched by friend or foe. The change in the 
order of battle had thrown them out of convenient reach of both 
armies, and in the distance it appeared as if a host of horse and foot 
had carelessly bivouacecl in the plain, and were still slumbering. 

Capt. McCall, with his command, consisting in all of about two 
hundred and twenty men, entered the chaparral. Capt. C. F. Smith, 
of the Second Artillery, with the light companies of the First brigade, 
moved on the right of the road, and Capt. McCall, with the artillery 
and infantry, moved on the left of the road. Capt. Walker, of the 
Texian Rangers, with a small detachment of mounted men, went in 
advance to examine the road, and Lieut. Pleasanton, with his Second 
Dragoons, brought up the rear. After advancing probably two miles 
through the chaparral, the troops were startled by the exhibition of a 
murdered woman, whose body lay beside the road. Her features 
were singularly regular and beautiful, and her dress indicated her one 
of the better class of Mexican women. She had evidently been killed 
during the retreat of the army from Palo Alto. Her appearance and 
her melancholy fate roused speculation, and a thousand rumors floated 
about ; but none seemed to be truthful, save so far as they were 
characteristic of her violent death, and her fate was one of those dark 
passages in the history of war, which are known to exist, but the 
particulars of which will probably ever remain clouded in mystery. 

Capt. Walker's party charged upon a straggling body of Mexicans, 
killing one man, and taking one prisoner. They then crossed the 
prairie, and returning, reported the road ahead open. Capt. McCall 
pushed into the chaparral, and soon discovered other small parties of 
Mexican infantry, and also a small party of cavalry. These were fired 
upon by the right of our advance. A few moments passed, and the 



92 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

head of Capt. McCalPs command reached the open ground bordering 
La Resaca de la Pahna, and were received by three rounds of can- 
ister from a masked battery. This killed one of our men, wounded 
two others, and caused them to break to the chaparral. They were 
instantly rallied, however, and with Capt. Smith's detachment, prepared, 
by a flank movement, to attack the enemy, who were supposed to be 
the rear guard of the Mexican army. 

In the meantime, Lieut. Dobbins, with a few men on the left of the 
road, had been charged upon by a large party of Mexicans, who 
rushed out of a ravine. Lieut. Dobbins raised his rifle, and killed 
their leader, thus killing the first man who fell on the Resaca de la 
Palma. At the same instant his soldiers fired, and bringing down 
more than their own number of the enemy, drove the remainder back. 
The masked battery then opened on Lieut. Dobbins, and a grape shot 
struck him down. He recovered himself just in time to order his 
men to the chaparral, to save them from being ridden down by a troop 
of Mexican cavalry that came up and passed him in pursuit. He then 
instantly ordered his men to press upon their rear, and the cavalry, 
supposing that they had fallen into an ambuscade, retreated in con- 
fusion. Lieut. McCown, having heard a report of the death of Lieut. 
Dobbins, came up in search of his body, when the tw r o officers met, 
and returned with their men to the main body of the advance guard. 
Capt. McCall, being now satisfied that the enemy was in force in the 
ravine in front, despatched three dragoons to inform Gen. Taylor of 
the fact, and placed himself in a strong position to await the arrival 
of the commander-in-chief. 

At 3 o'clock Gen. Taylor received the message from Capt. McCall, 
and immediately issued orders for the wagons to be parked. The 
Artillery brigade under Col. Childs, Duncan's battery, and the Eighth 
regiment, were left to protect them. Ridgely, with his battery, was 
ordered forward on the road, while the Third, Fourth, and Fifth 
regiments of Infantry were ordered forward as skirmishers to cover 
the battery, and engage the infantry of the enemy. Gen. Taylor with 
his staff came up with Capt. McCall and party at about 4 o'clock. He 
immediately deployed Capt. McCall to the left of the road, and Capt. 
Smith to the right, with orders to bring on the action. 

The Mexicans, after the battle of the 8th, had returned slowly from 



RESACA DE LA PALMA. 93 

the Palo Alto, and moved towards Matamoros ; the cavalry being the 
last to retreat. After moving a few miles, they arrived at Resaca de 
la Palma, a naturally strong position, and so retreated as to entirely 
command the approach to Fort Brown. Here they had entrenched. 
At this place the road crosses, at a right angle, a ravine, probably sixty 
yards wide and nearly breast high. The lowest parts of the ravine 
are at all times filled with water, forming long and serpentine ponds 
through the prairie. In very rainy seasons, these ponds unite across 
the ridge forming the road, and then flow off towards the Rio Grande, 
making what is known by the apparently contradictory, yet proper 
name of the Dry River of Raima. Along the banks of this dry river, 
and more particularly on the side then occupied by the Mexicans, the 
chaparral grows most densely, and at this time, save where it was 
broken in by the passage of the road, formed almost a solid wall. 
The enemy occupied this ravine in double line : one behind and under 
the front bank, and the other entrenched behind the wall of the cha- 
parral on the top of the rear ridge. A battery was placed in the centre 
of each line on the right and on the left of the road, and a third battery 
was on the right of the first line. Six or seven thousand troops were 
thus strongly fortified in a form resembling a crescent, between the 
horns of which the Americans had to pass, while the Mexican batteries 
were enfilading and cross-firing the narrow road which formed the 
only unobstructed approach to their position. 

The moment that Ridgely received orders to advance, he moved 
forward and cautiously along the road, endeavoring, with the assist- 
ance of Capt. Walker, to obtain the exact position of the enemy's 
batteries, which they finally discovered in the road, in advance of 
their own columns. At this instant the batteries opened a fire, and 
Lieut. Ridgely and men charged them at full speed, and with loud 
cheers, in which they were joined by the Fifth regiment, who were 
in the van of the infantry. The Fifth, now deployed as skirmishers, 
pushed on at full speed nearly three-fourths of a mile before Ridgely 
opened, and with a speed nearly equal to that of the flying artillery. 
A portion of the Fourth soon came up, and joined with the Fifth on 
the left, and the Third regiment and the remainder of the Fourth 
came towards the ravine on the enemy's right. 

Capt. McCall's command, having been ordered to move ahead, had 



94 OUR ARMY ON THE, RIO GRANDE. 

advanced some three hundred yards, and encountered the right wing 
of the enemy's infantry. Thus, almost simultaneously, our musketry 
opened with our artillery, and the action of Resaca de la Palma com- 
menced. The Eighth regiment was now ordered forward in double 
quick time, in columns of companies, and under a heavy and most de- 
structive fire of grape they came up in the rear of Duncan's battery, 
also ordered to the front. 

While this movement was going on, Ridgely was answering the 
enemy's batteries. His cannoniers, stripped to their buff, did their 
work -with a determination that nothing could surpass, and for thirty 
minutes laboured under a storm of canister and grape that literally 
filled the air, Ridgely often sighting the pieces with the coolness of 
mere target practice, and by well-directed discharges endeavored to 
keep off the assailing cavalry, who frequently pressed him hard, and 
at times, when our infantry was not up to his support, obliging him to 
defend his pieces with his own sword. So terrible was now the ene- 
my's fire, that if it had not often been aimed too high, and thereby 
passing over to our advancing columns in the rear of the battery, it 
would have fairly swept away Ridgely's whole command, as the dis- 
charges were so rapid, that they, joining with the discharges of our 
own pieces, formed one continued stultifying roar. 

It is an extraordinary fact, that so rapidly did the regiments move 
after the orders were given for their advance, that they almost simul- 
taneously joined in the contest, and with a deafening shout they ap- 
peared upon the banks of the ravine, and commenced a well-directed 
discharge of musketry. 

The Fifth regiment, under Lieut. Col. Mcintosh, supported Ridgely's 
battery. The Third regiment, under the command of Capt. L. N. Mor- 
ris, and the Fourth, under Major Allen, scattered by the dense chapar- 
ral, were obliged to form in the ravine. The Eighth, under the com- 
mand of Capt. W. R. Montgomery, with Smith's Light and other corps, 
faced to the right. Duncan's battery was at the edge of the ravine, 
but he could not use it, as the only position from which the enemy 
could be engaged without galling our troops was in possession of 
Ridgely. 

The best troops of Mexico were now disputing for the honor of 
their arms. Heretofore ever triumphant in the field when engaged 



CONTEST AT THE RAVINE. 95 

in the wars of civil discord, they seemed determined to meet death 
rather than suffer a defeat. But they were not able to withstand the 
spirit with which our troops pressed on. The well-directed musketry, 
the sharp sword, the constant discharge of artillery, and the often- 
crossed bayonets, made the outworks of the living wall of the enemy 
tremble, and they began reluctantly to give way until, finally, our 
troops announced, in repeated cheers, that they were in the ravine oc- 
cupied by the enemy's advance at the beginning of the action. 

To accomplish this, the struggle was terrible. The enemy disputed 
every inch of ground, never yielding except when overcome by force. 
The infantry had captured the piece of artillery on the right of the 
enemy's line, and attempted to charge across the pond of water ; but 
still the batteries, although surrounded with wounded and dead, stood 
firm, and kept up their murderous fire, pouring into our living front 
a storm of grape and shell, under cover of which the Mexicans would 
charge across the ravine, and attempt to recover their lost position. 



96 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER XII. 

Gen. Taylor's order to Capt. May — Ridgely's coolness — May's charge — Its ef- 
fects — Fall of Lieut. Inge — The capture of Gen. Vega — The Fifth charges 
— Capt. Hooe wounded — Lieut. Col. Payne wounded — The Eighth — Lieut. 
Col. Belknap's charge — Lieut. Lincoln — Fall of Lieut. Chadbourne — Lieut. 
Jordan wounded — The Third — The Fourth — Capt. Buchanan — Lieutenants 
Woods and Hays — Capt. Barbour — -Gallantry and death of Corporal Chisholm 
— Lieut. Col. Mcintosh wounded — Charge of Duncan's battery — Incident- 
Arista's camp — Charge of Mexican cavalry — Death of Lieut. Cochrane. 

Gex. Taylor, finding that the strong position of the enemy kept 
him from driving them before him, sent word to Capt. May, of the 
dragoons, who was in the rear, to immediately report himself for duty. 
When that officer appeared, Gen. Taylor observed, " Capt. May, you 
must charge the enemy's batteries, and take them nolens volens." To 
which Capt. May replied, " I will do it ;" and turning to his command 
he said, " Remember your regiment and follow your officers." Then 
striking his spurs into his horse, he dashed down the road, his com- 
mand, owing to the narrowness of the road, following him in columns 
of fours. The men, as they swept along, raised a shout that momen- 
tarily rang above the din of battle, while the mingled tramp of the 
horses' feet fairly shook the earth. 

But May's moment had not yet come. The gallant Ridgely ob- 
structed his onward progress. " I am ordered to charge those batte- 
ries," said May, coming to a halt. Ridgely, begrimed with powder, 
and laboring in the humblest offices about his pieces, turned to his 
brother officer, and knowing the dangerous duty he had to perform, 
said, " Wait, Charley, until I draw their fire." The next instant the 
match descended, and ere the sharp report of Ridgely's batteries had 
fairly broken on the air, the enemy replied, and the copper hail came 
whizzing and crushing among the brave artillerists. Quick as thought 
Ridgely limbered up, and deployed from the road, his men jumped on 
their pieces, and cheered the dragoons as they passed. The infantry, 
attracted by the cry, looked and saw May, who, from the superiority 
of his horse, was far across the ravine while the head of his column 



CAPT. MAY'S CHARGE. 97 

was just entering it. The slightest glance told the tale to our little 
army, and they raised one universal shout of exultation, that fairly re- 
echoed to the Rio Grande. 

It was a soul-stirring sight to witness that charge. The dragoons 
were stripped of every unnecessary encumbrance, and brandished their 
weapons with their naked arms that displayed the well-filled muscle, 
glittering like the bright steel they wielded. May, far in the advance, 
seemed to be a living messenger of death that Ridgely had sent from 
his battery at its last discharge. His long hair and beard streamed be- 
neath his gold-tasselled cap, like the rays of a comet ; and upon his 
cimetar the tropical sun glistened with burning effulgence. There 
followed in his lead the long dark line of his squadron, and as his 
charger rose upon the enemy's batteries the rider turned to wave on 
his men, when he found at his heels the gallant Inge, who answered 
the challenge with a shout. That instant the enemy poured a terri- 
ble fire of grape and canister from the upper battery, which swept 
over the squadron a cloud of winged messengers of death. Eighteen 
horses and seven brave men came in bloody mangled masses to the 
earth. Lieut. Sackett whirled from his killed horse, sword in hand, 
among the enemy ; and beyond the battery the gallant Inge, mortally 
wounded by a cannon shot in his throat, wavered for a moment, and 
then, with his steed, fell headlong down. But there was no checking 
those who lived. On they rushed with Lieut. Stevens, carrying every 
thing before them, while Capt. Graham, Lieutenants Winship and 
Pleasanton, with their command, swept to the left of the road, and 
leaped over the battery there situated. The Mexicans were completely 
driven from their guns, and their fire silenced. But the men about these 
pieces, though repulsed, were not beaten. Back they rushed to them, 
and with their bayonet points determined to retain them or die. 




Graves of Lieut. Z. M. P. Inge and his dragoons. 

7 



98 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

May and his squadron having acccomplished their work, checked 
and scattered themselves amongst a host of enemies, who were pour- 
ing on them a galling fire of musketry, or having rushed back to the 
guns, commenced ramming home the fatal grape, to again scatter it 
among our ranks. Gathering five or six men, May charged back to 
our own lines. As his tall form rose and fell on the gigantic leaps of 
his charger, the Mexicans shrunk from his powerfully-dealt sword, as 
if they had been assailed by lightning. One Mexican kept his ground, 
and vainly tried to rally his men ; despairing of success, with his own 
hand he seized a match, when May ordered him to surrender. Dis- 
covering the command came from an officer, the Mexican touched his 
breast, and said, " Gen. La Vega is a prisoner;" he then handed Capt. 
May his sword. Under a galling fire of the enemy's infantry, Vega 
was carried to our lines in charge of Lieut. Stevens, and a non-com- 
missioned officer, and by them conducted in safety to our rear. 
Shortly afterwards, Capt. May presented the distinguished captive's 
sword to his commanding general.* 

Silenced as were the enemy's batteries, the infantry gathered round 
them in solid phalanx, disputing for their possession at the bayonet's 
point. Our troops, broken very much by the peculiarity of the ground 

* " I have seen it stated, in some of the late papers, that Gen. Vega was 
delivered to Gen. Taylor on the battle field, by Col. Twiggs. This is an 
error — certainly of no consequence after his capture by the gallant May; but 
as every thing connected with the treatment of this distinguished prisoner on 
the field, must be more or less interesting, I beg leave to correct the error, 
and to state what befell the gallant general, after he was conducted to Col. 
Twiggs, by order of Capt. May. 

" The Artillery battalion (a regiment of foot) was stationed on the 9th, at 
the outset of the chaparral, and was there formed ' in square.' This battalion, 
which had suffered the day before more than any other, except the Eighth 
Infantry, was placed in this position for these reasons: to protect the train 
against a charge of the enemy's cavalry, to repair any disaster which might 
occur in the ordnance, and to afford fresh troops for the pursuit, when the 
battle was gained. 

" Col. Twiggs sent for Col. Childs, who commanded it, and turned the pri- 
soner over to him ; but Childs, having dismounted, (Gen. Vega was on foot,) 
sent an order to his battalion, that the prisoner should be received with the 
honor due his rank. As soon as the prisoner issued from the chaparral, the 
words, ' Present Arms' were given. The square ' presented arms' in perfect 
silence, and, as he approached, not a smile of gratification or a word of ex- 
ultation, was seen or heard ; (so much for the delicacy of the common soldier, 
who had, perhaps, the day before, lost his nearest friend by the enemy's can- 



LIEUT. COL. BELKNAP. 99 

and the intervening clumps of trees, now charged in mass, and en- 
gaged with the enemy. The Fifth regiment being ahead, was ordered 
to charge the batteries ; in doing which, Capt. Hooe's sword-arm was 
shattered by a grape, and he fell at the head of his company. The 
regiment rushed on, amidst a sweeping fire of musketry that brought 
down many a gallant spirit, and they crossed bayonets over the 
muzzles of the cannon. Capt. May charged one piece with only five 
men; Lieut. Col. Payne, acting as an aid to Gen. Taylor, with an 
ardor far exceeding his duty, rushed forward into the ravine, encou- 
raging the troops by his presence and voice, and although severely 
wounded, kept his place in the saddle. At this time Capt. May had 
dashed up to the Eighth, with the information that he had carried the 
main battery of the enemy, but, being unsupported, was unable to 
maintain it; Col. Belknap immediately ordered the regiment to form 
in the road, when he led it on in person. While advancing, he was 
joined by a part of the Fifth Infantry under Capt. M. Scott. For an 
instant, the fire of the Mexicans checked the advance, when Col. Bel- 
knap sprang forward, and seizing one of their standards, waved on 
his troops, who were now, with the entire Fifth regiment, engaged 
in a hand-to-hand conflict with the celebrated Tampico veterans. In 

non-shot.) Gen. Vega seemed surprised at the salute, courteously and slowly- 
raised his hat, and the square was brought to a shoulder. 

" Col. Childs then called from his position Capt. Magruder, who command- 
ed one of the companies of the square. Capt. Magruder had known Gen. 
Vega before, and immediately insisted upon his mounting his (Capt. M.'s) 
horse. No sooner was this done, than it became necesssary for the battalion 
to move on, and Capt. Magruder was ordered by Col. Childs to escort the 
prisoner, in security, with a small command, to Gen. Taylor. Fortunately no 
rescue was attempted, as his command was very small, and the order was 
promptly executed, when Gen. Vega was introduced on the field by Capt. 
Magruder, to Gen. Taylor. Gen. Taylor shook him warmly by the hand, and 
addressed to him the following handsome remarks: 

'"General: I do assure you, I deeply regret that this misfortune has fallen 
upon you. 1 regret it sincerely, and I take great pleasure in returning you 
the sword, which you have this day won with so much gallantry,' handing 
him, at the same time, the sword which Gen. Vega had yielded to Capt. May. 
Gen. Vega made a suitable reply in Spanish, and was then taken charge of 
by Col. Twigg's, at the colonel's own request, and entertained by him in the 
most hospitable manner, in his own tent, until his departure for New Orleans. 

" One must record and admire so much courtesy and gentleness, united in 
a most sanguinary field, with so much devotion and courage." — Matamoros 
Cor. Bait. Pat. 



100 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the charge, Col. Belknap had the staff of his standard shot away, and 
on the same instant his horse, coming among a pile of dead and 
wounded artillerists, made a sudden movement aside, and threw his 
rider. The Eighth took up the cry that their commander was killed, 
and dealt their blows the heavier, when he appeared at the head of 
his column ; the battery having been carried. The Eighth, then under 
the immediate command of Capt. W. R. Montgomery, and the Fifth, 
under Lieut. Col. Mcintosh, charged up the ravine amidst a sheet of 
fire from the enemy's right and front. They drove their supporting 
columns before them, repulsing charges of cavalry and infantry of 
immense superiority of force, and although killing vast numbers, with 
difficulty driving the enemy from the field. 

Lieut. Lincoln of the Eighth regiment, headed a charge upon a 
clump of chaparral, in which were lodged a party of Mexicans, who 
were pouring a singularly destructive fire upon his regiment, as it ad 
vanced up the road. In the midst of the conflict, he saw Lieut. Jor- 
dan, (who had personally charged the enemy,) wounded upon the 
ground, with a Mexican over him, in the act of running a bayonet 
through his body; Lincoln sprang forward, and the Mexican faltering, 
in alarm, ran his bayonet through the arm, instead of the breast of 
Jordan. At the same instant, Lincoln cleft his scull. This gallant 
officer with his sergeant, engaged in a conflict with others of the 
enemy, causing them to retreat, after having slain three of them with 
their own hands. 

Lieut. Chadbourne of the Eighth, after distinguishing himself for 
his bravery, in one of these skirmishes fell mortally wounded, at the 
head of his command. 




Grave of Lieut. T. 1. Chadbourne. 



BATTLE OF RESACA DE LA PALMA. 101 

The Third regiment, under the command of Capt. L. N. Morris, 
and the Fourth, under Major Allen, were conspicuous for the sphit 
with which they entered the contest. These two corps gallantly 
rivalled each other in sharing the brilliant events of the day. These 
two regiments charged through the densest chaparral ; and while 
Capt. Morris, and the other officers of the Third, were overcoming 
what appeared to be insurmountable difficulties to meet the enemy, 
the Fourth came into the ravine, opposite an entrenchment supported 
by a piece of artillery, that poured a most galling fire into our ranks. 
Capt. Buchanan, being senior officer nearest the point, collected some 
twenty-five or thirty men, and with Lieutenants Hays and Woods 
charged across the lagoon, knee and waist deep in water, and after a 
close quarter conflict, routed the enemy. Lieut. Hays distinguished 
himself, by springing forward and seizing the leading mules attached to 
the piece, to prevent its being driven off, while Lieut. Woods sprang 
to the handspikes, and turned it in such a direction as to lock one 
of the wheels against a tree. A large force of the enemy's cavalry 
suddenly charged upon these officers, but Capt. Barbour, of the Third, 
came to the rescue, and with the point of the bayonet drove off the 
cavalry. Corporal Chisholm, of the Third Infantry, shot the Mexican 
Lieut. Col. who led the charge. As the officer fell, the corporal was 
seen to hand him his canteen of water, and but a moment afterwards 
Chisholm was laying dead on his back, with a cartridge in his hand, 
and the bitten-off end resting upon his lip. 

Buchanan's party, along with portions of the Fifth regiment, then 
charged on the Mexican lines. In the excitement, Lieut. Col. Mcin- 
tosh dashed on a wall of chaparral, although it was lined with infantry 
"and cavalry. Under a galling fire, he broke it down by repeated blows 
of his sword, and the weight of his horse. The instant he got 
through, his horse fell dead from under him ; Col. Mcintosh sprang 
to his feet ; a crowd of Mexicans, armed with muskets and lances, 
rushed upon him, still he gallantly defended himself. A bayonet 
passed through his mouth and came out below his ear ; seizing the 
weapon, he raised his sword to cut the fiend down who held it, 
when another bayonet passed through and terribly shattered his arm, 
and another still, through his hip ; borne down by superiority of 
force, he fell, and was literally pinned to the earth. The command 



102 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

of the Fifth now devolved upon Major Staniford, who conducted it 
with zeal and ability to the close of the engagement. 

After the first charge on the enemy's lines had been made, Ridgely 
was obliged to suspend his fire for fear of galling our own troops. 
Duncan's battery had been idle, for want of a position to act with 
any effect. Both batteries were now ordered across the ravine, sup- 
ported by Capt. C. F. Smith's light infantry, and Capt. Ker's squadron 
of dragoons. Lieut. Duncan came up ahead with his battery when 
the Fifth was engaged with the enemy, under a heavy fire from the 
opposite side of the lagoon that crossed the road. Here he met Col. 
Mcintosh, and requested of him a party to support him, while he 
crossed the lagoon, and forced the enemy from their strong position. 
In the hurry of the moment Lieut. Duncan did not perceive that Col. 
Mcintosh was wounded. The Col. turned to Lieut. Duncan, present- 
ing a most terrible sight. The blood from some of his numerous 
wounds had clotted on his face, and he answered with difficulty, " I 
will give you the support you need." 

Lieut. Duncan perceiving his situation, asked, with some emotion, 
" if he could be of any service to him ?" Col. Mcintosh replied : 

" Yes ! give me some water, and show me my regiment." 

Lieutenants Woods and Hays, with a portion of the Fourth, pressed 
on. and came up with Lieutenants Cochrane and Augur, with a few 
men of every regiment, when, to their surprise, they found themselves 
in the head quarters of Gen. Arista. After taking possession of it, the 
party still kept up the road, until reconnoitred by a Mexican officer, 
who was seen riding very close. He was saluted with a discharge of 
musketry, but he escaped unharmed. Again he was seen moving to- 
wards our party, and again he was fired upon, and again escaped. 
Undauntedly he moved on, held his ground, and received a volley of 
musketry, and most singularly he remained upon his horse, and rode 
off. A moment only elapsed, when he returned with a squadron of 
lancers, charging like a whirlwind ; our soldiers delivered their fire 
steadily, bringing one or two horsemen to the ground, and then fell 
back into the chaparral. Lieut. Cochrane remained in the open space, 
and received the whole charge; he nobly defended himself with his 
sword, but was crushed down, falling dead with seven lance wounds 
in his breast. 



BATTLE OF RESACA DE LA PALMA. 



103 




Grave of Lieut. R. E. Cochrane. 



All order of battle was now lost, yet the enemy, driven from their 
entrenchments, and without artillery, and with their camp in our 
possession, still chivalrously, but unsuccessfully, disputed the onward 
march of our troops. 

The last Mexican flag that waved over the field had struck, the tri- 
color of the Tampico veterans, that bad so gallantly shown itself on 
the Palo Alto, where it was torn by our artillery, and had been de- 
fended on the Resaca de la Palma, until the regiment to which it had 
belonged was literally destroyed, was torn from its staff by the gallant 
spirit that bore it; concealing it about his person, when all hope was 
lost, he attempted to flee to his countrymen on the east of the Rio 
Grande. The poor standard bearer, however, did not escape; rode 
down by our dragoons, he, with others, was a prisoner, and the flag 
of the Batallon Tanpico, hangs a trophy in our national capitol. 




Flag of the Tampico Veterans. 



Both Duncan's and Ridgely's batteries were opened on the retreat- 



104 OUR ARMY ON THE. RIO GRANDE. 

ing enemy, driving them from their last holds, and completely routing 
those who still lingered. Cavalry and infantry were seen in confused 
masses, flying in every direction; many rushing towards the Rio 
Grande. 

The camp of Arista told the perfect confidence he had in the 
strength of his arms. It was evident that not the least preparation had 
been made for a defeat — no such thought had ever been indulged in. 
Arista brought with him into the field an unnecessary amount of bag- 
gage. His head quarters were just being arranged ; his splendid mar- 
quee, his trunks, and private property were together, surrounded by 
pompously arranged walls, comprising the military wealth of the 
army. There were stands of small arms, ammunition boxes, hun- 
dreds and thousands of musket ball-cartridges, and nearly five hundred 
splendid pack saddles ; in short, almost an Eastern prodigality of 
military equipage. 

In the camp of the army were found the preparations for a great 
festival, no doubt to follow the expected victory. The camp kettles 
were simmering over the fires, filled with savory viands, off of which 
our troops made a plentiful evening meal. In the road were carcases 
of half skinned oxen. The hangers-on of the camp, while the battle 
was raging, were busy in their feast-preparing work, unconscious of 
dangers, when on an instant, a sudden panic must have seized them, 
and they fled, leaving their half completed labors to be consummated 
by our own troops. Never, probably, in the history of war, had a 
more perfect consternation seized upon a defeated army, and seldom 
has one left such singularly eloquent memorials of the fact, as did the 
Mexicans at Resaca de la Palma. 



MAJOR BROWN. 105 



CHAPTER XIII. 

The fort — The flag — Death of Major Brown — Intense excitement — Specula- 
tions on the battle — Evidences of defeat — Retreat — Pursuit — Mexicans — 
Col. Curasco — Gen. Ampudia — Death of Father Leary — Consternation in 
Matamoros — Terrible effects of the defeat — Gen. Taylor's despatch from 
Resaca de la Palma. 

On the night of the 8th, the defenders of Fort Brown were permitted 
to rest in quiet. On the morning of the glorious 9th, their first act 
was to raise our national flag. On the day previous, the halyards had 
become unrigged, at a time when the firing from the enemy was too 
intense to establish them, the staff at that time being outside of the 
fort. To meet this difficulty, the regimental colors were raised on a 
temporary substitute, erected on the parapets. An officer of the Se- 
venth succeeded in lowering the topmast of the staff, and rigging the 
halyards. While engaged in this patriotic duty, the enemy opened 
on him from all their batteries, with round shot and shell, amidst 
which he coolly labored for fifteen or twenty minutes. Finding he 
was not strong enough to elevate the topmast to its proper place, he 
lashed it in its position, and gave the stars and stripes to the breeze. 

At 10 o'clock, a sergeant and ten men went out, and set fire to the 
rancho, known by Arista's despatches as the Fanques del Raminero, 
the buildings of which had been successively occupied by our own 
and the enemy's pickets. This act brought forth a heavy discharge 
of shell, canister, and round shot, which continued at intervals for 
about four hours. 

Major Brown, since his wound, had lingered on, his friends bestow- 
ing on him every attention that the circumstances would admit : he 
bore his sufferings with the greatest fortitude, and whenever he spoke, 
he urged his men to do their duty, and never surrender the fort. It 
was necessary that he should be placed in one of the bomb proofs, to 
protect him from the missiles of the enemy : the weather was exceed- 
ingly warm, and the air in the bomb proof necessarily close : this 
circumstance, perhaps, joined with the aggravated nature of his wounds, 



106 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

hastened his death. He gradually sunk, and at 2 o'clock peacefully 
breathed his last. At the time of his death, every thing around the 
fort was perfectly still ; the soldiers around the dying man seemed 
scarcely to breathe, lest they should intrude upon his parting spirit ; 
nor was the silence broken, until Ridgely opened his batteries upon 
the Resaca de la Palma. 

No language can describe the intense interest with which the raging 
battle was listened to : each man was at his post, and every booming 
gun called forth an almost agonising interest to learn its nationality 
and effects. Meanwhile the bombardment opened simultaneously 
with the firing on the field, and continued to increase with unprece- 
dented severity : but it was not to the batteries of the Mexicans that 
attention was directed. Our eighteen-pound ers were occasionally 
fired, to let Gen. Taylor know that all was still well in the fort. The 
firing on the battle field was now growing less and less powerful, and 
the discharges were becoming irregular. " They have charged on the 
guns !" shouted one of the officers : another, and another was silenced. 
— " They have carried them !" shouted another in uncontrollable ex- 
tasy. All cannonading ceased ; volleys of musketry were next heard, 
then all was still. How eloquently the silence spoke of the hand-to- 
hand conflict, and how the blood in the hearts of these brave men 
went and came, from excitement to be engaged in it ! The victorious 
result of our arms was now almost certain. Gen. Taylor and his 
brave men would either conquer or die. No bells were now ringing 
in Matamoros, and the noisy music, that was wont to belabor the air, 
had been silenced since the evening of the 8th. This, to the heroes 
of the fort, was full of meaning, and the tale was soon told. At a 
little before six, a confused rush of cavalry and straggling infantry 
towards the Rio Grande, announced the victory of the Americans, at 
sight of which, an officer of the Seventh jumped upon the parapet, 
beside the regimental flag staff, and gave three cheers, which were 
responded to so loudly and heartily by all in the fort, that they si- 
lenced the enemy's batteries, for from that moment they ceased firing. 
The news had reached Matamoros that to Mexico the day was lost. 

The distance from Resaca de la Palma to the river, is about four 
miles. Beyond the battle ground the road forks, leading to both the 
upper and lower ferries, between which is situated Fort Brown. The 



FLIGHT OF THE MEXICANS. 107 

country here is more broken, and the chaparral of stronger and denser 
growth than in the interior. Into these intricate thickets a majority 
of the Mexicans fled after the rout became general ; hundreds and 
thousands of troops here buried themselves, waiting for the veil of 
night to aid them in their escape. Along the road, however, great 
numbers swept, " fear lending them wings." In this flight the slightly 
wounded infantry fell exhausted ; horses that had been shot, but able 
to maintain their feet until put at full speed, rolled on the earth, car- 
rying their riders with them. The soldiers stripped themselves of 
every encumbrance ; they threw away their muskets, cartridge boxes, 
their military cloaks, with every thing calculated to retard their speed, 
plainly marking their route by the abandoned articles. Squadrons of 
cavalry, finding their movements impeded by the infantry, rode over, 
without scruple, those whom the fate of war had spared. 

Our troops pursued ; but their arms lost their force when directed 
against troops of defenceless beings, or individuals fleeing before a vic- 
torious foe. 

One of the " eighteens" in the fort was now turned towards the 
Upper ferry, sending a shower of grape among the fleeing hundreds. 
As our pursuing columns debouched from the chaparral that sur- 
rounds Fort Brown, and saw the flag of our country still waving in 
triumph from its ramparts, they raised to the glory of its defenders, a 
shout that made the welkin ring, and it was sent back from the fort 
until cheer answering cheer, reverberated along the valley of the Rio 
Grande. The want of a sufficient number of dragoons made it impos- 
sible to immediately extend our lines so as to cut off the enemy's re- 
treat, and Gen. Taylor, deficient in means to cross the river with ra- 
pidity and force, had made no previous arrangements to attempt so 
desirable a consummation of his victory. With the approach of night 
all offensive measures on our part ceased. 

A part of our pursuing troops, including May's command, having 
drunk of the water of the Rio Grande, fell back to the battle ground, 
where they, with the main army, bivouaced for the night. Duncan's 
and Ridgely's commands, Lieut. Col. Child's battalion, Capt. Ker's dra- 
goons, together with Capt. C. F. Smith's command, bivouaced on the 
banks of the river, many upon the same ground they had left nine 
days before. 



108 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Throughout both battles, the Mexicans had kept up a constant com- 
munication with Matamoros by means of a secret crossing above the 
Upper ferry. By this they had sent over their wounded, and brought 
over their reinforcements as the contest thickened. They forced the 
poor wretches into sacks slung across the backs of mules, and thus, 
the agony of their wounds increasing at every step, they were con- 
veyed to that city, they had hoped to enter so proudly as victors. 

When Capt. May made his charge, many of the soldiers in the rear 
of the Mexican army, abandoned their ranks and fled ; and the ran- 
cheros, who had hung about as vultures waiting for prey, finding that 
our train was not likely to fall into their hands, rushed into the camp 
of their own countrymen, robbed it of whatever loose valuables they 
could find, then scattered over the country and disappeared. Col. Cu- 
rasco, the " bull-dog" so called, of the Mexican army, was the first 
officer that fled. Early in the contest he crossed to the east of the 
Rio Grande, and secreted himself in the suburbs of the town. After 
our troops charged, and took the batteries, Gen. Ampudia also sought 
safety in flight, and was the first man that appeared in Matamoros after 
the defeat of the army. Mad with terror, and exhausted by his narrow 
escape from being drowned while crossing the river, he entered the 
Plaza, and circled it several times, unconscious of what he was doing, 
until his senses were recalled by his wondering countrymen, who 
learned Arista's total defeat as Ampudia exclaimed, " All is lost !" 

At their secret crossing the Mexicans had but one flat, which was 
entirely insufficient for the numbers who now, in terror, sought the 
river. While the flat swarmed with infantry, the cavalry would charge, 
and, filling the flat, drive the poor wretches who had occupied it into 
the river. The water was covered with the miserable beings who, 
confused and desperate, plunged about in the waves, calling on God 
to help them, or venting their impotent maledictions upon those who 
had forced them to a watery grave. They sunk by scores, clutching 
each other in the agonies of death ; and the " mad river" fairly boiled 
with the expiring breath of those who had sunken under its dark 
wave ! 

In the midst of the panic Father Leary arrived at the bank, and by 
his presence restored order, in a certain degree, among the fugitives. 
He took his place on the flat, already crowded with troops. It was 



GEN. TAYLOR'S DESPATCH. 109 

about shoving off, when down the bank swept a flying column of ca- 
valry. Goaded by their riders, the steeds madly leaped into the boats, 
crushing to death scores of their victims, and driving the remainder 
into the river, the holy father raised his crucifix above his head, mut- 
tered an ejaculatory prayer, and disappeared with the mass of his fel- 
low beings under the waves. 

Nothing could exceed the consternation that reigned in Matamoros 
on the night of the 9th. Between four and five thousand lawless 
soldiers were wandering, panic struck, about the streets. The cha- 
grined and discomfited officers, formed into cabals, and speculated upon 
the causes of their inglorious defeat. Meanwhile, Ampudia was en- 
deavoring to prove his own bravery by secretly denouncing Arista, 
and declaring, that, had he been commander-in-chief, he would have 
swept the Americans from off the face of the earth. 

The night was made hideous by the constant arrival of the wound- 
ed in sacks ; many yelled like fiends, as the rough carriage, and con- 
tracted form, started afresh their bleeding wounds ; others were found 
dead in their sacks, having been drowned while crossing the river on 
swimming mules. The women of the city rushed to the ball rooms, 
And tore down the festoons prepared for the great festival, to be given 
in honor of victorious arms. They tore off and stamped upon their 
gay apparel, and mingled their cries of wild despair with those of the 
wounded. 

The more substantial citizens hurriedly gathered together their 
effects and fled into the country, many of these fell by the hands of 
unorganised troops, and their property was divided among the mur- 
derers. Hundreds of soldiers were scattered over the country, who 
pillaged all within their reach, and attacked the defenceless that came 
in their way. Social, civil, and military order were scattered to the 
winds, — dark crime, and unbridled passion rioted in the confusion 
that followed this terrible defeat. 

At 10 o'clock at night Gen. Taylor dictated the following despatch : 

Head Quarters Aiuit of Occupation, 

Camp at Resaca de la Palma, three miles from Matamoros, 

10 o'clock, P. M., May 9, 1846. 
Sir: — I have the honor to report that I marched with the main 
body of the army at 2 o'clock to-day, having previously thrown 



110 OUR ARMY ON THE-RIO GRANDE. 

forward a body of light infantry into the forest that covers the 
Matamoros road. When near the spot where I am now encamped, 
my advance discovered that a ravine crossing the road had been oc- 
cupied by the enemy with artillery. I immediately ordered a battery 
of field artillery to sweep the position, flanking and sustaining it by 
the Third, Fourth, and Fifth regiments, deployed as skirmishers to the 
right and left. A heavy fire of artillery and of musketry was kept up 
for some time, until finally the enemy's batteries were carried in suc- 
cession by a squadron of dragoons, and the regiments of infantry that 
were on the ground. He was soon driven from his position, and 
pursued by a squadron of dragoons, battalion of artillery, Third In- 
fantry, and a light battery, to the river. Our victory has been com- 
plete. Eight pieces of artillery, with a great quantity of ammunition, 
three standards, and some one hundred prisoners, have been taken; 
among the latter Gen. Vega, and several other officers. One general 
is understood to have been killed. The enemy has recrossed the 
river, and I am sure will not again molest us on this bank. 

The loss of the enemy in killed has been most severe. Our own 
has been very heavy, and I deeply regret to report that Lieut. Inge, 
Second Dragoons, Lieut. Cochrane, Fourth Infantry, and Lieut. Chad- 
bourne, Eighth Infantry, were killed on the field. Lieut. Col. Payne, 
Fourth Infantry, Lieut. Col. Mcintosh, Lieut. Dobbins, Third Infantry, 
Capt. Hooe and Lieut. Fowler, Fifth Infantry, and Capt. Montgomery, 
Lieutenants Gates, Selden, McClay, Burbank, and Jordan, Eighth In- 
fantry, were wounded. The extent of our loss in killed and wounded 
is not yet ascertained, and is reserved for a more detailed report. 

The affair of to-day may be regarded as a proper supplement to 
the cannonade of yesterday, and the two taken together exhibit the 
coolness and gallantry of our officers and men in the most favorable 
light. All have done their duty, and done it nobly. It will be my 
pride, in a more circumstantial report of both actions, to dwell upon 
particular instances of individual distinction. 

It affords me peculiar pleasure to report that the field work oppo- 
site Matamoros has sustained itself handsomely during a cannonade 
and bombardment of one hundred and sixty hours. But the pleasure 
is alloyed with profound regret at the loss of its heroic and indomita- 
ble commander, Major Brown, who died to-day from the effect of a 



GEN. TAYLOR'S DESPATCH. Ill 

shell. His loss would be a severe one to the service at any time, but 
to the army under my orders it is indeed irreparable. One officer and 
one non-commissioned officer killed, and ten men wounded, compose 
all the casualties incident to this severe bombardment. 

I inadvertently omitted to mention the capture of a large number 
of pack mules left in the Mexican camp. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. General U. S. .#., Commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



112 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

Burial of the dead on Resaca de la Palma — Lieut. Inge^Lieut. Chadbourne— 
Lieut. Cochrane — Affecting Incident — Exchange of prisoners — Mexican ser- 
geant — Gen. Vega — Prisoners of war — Wounded — Gen. Taylor starts for 
Point Isabel — Com. Conner — "Jack ashore'' — Meeting — Major Ringgold — 
His death — Official despatch. 

Early on the morning following the victory, Gen. Taylor sent over 
to Matamoros for Mexican surgeons, to attend their wounded left on 
the field, and also for men to assist in burying their own dead. It was 
an occasion of sadness to our troops, for the day was occupied in 
burying their brave countrymen, who had fallen on the battle field. 
These honored dead were laid in their last resting-places, near the 
spot on which they fell. 

Resaca de la Palma, therefore, with which is associated a victory 
of arms, is hallowed by the graves of those heroes, who now sleep 
peacefully under the sod that had been mute witness of their glorious 
deeds. 

Many a sturdy spirit that had faced the cannon's mouth, and rushed 
impetuously upon the bayonet-point, or received without flinching, 
the swift squadron of the Mexican cavalry, sank within itself, as were 
lowered into their mother earth, those who had shared with them the 
perils and triumphs of a soldier's life. It was mournful to hear the 
rolling volleys of musketry that were fired, as the last and saddest 
tribute to the soldier dead. 

Lieut. Inge and his fellow dragoons rest side by side, but a little 
removed from the place where they fell : as the traveller crosses the 
ravine, he can, by turning a few paces from the road, rest a moment 
by these graves. 

Lieut. Chadbourne fell in the deadliest struggle of the Eighth. The 
sod that drank his life-blood, now rests over him. Nearer the river, 
the road turns, leaving an open space upon the right, in which is a 
grave slightly distinguished from those about it; Lieut. Cochrane 
there sleeps his last sleep. 



EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS. 113 

There was an affecting scene enacted among the dead soldiers. One 
of the first that fell, mortally wounded, was an Irishman — a remark- 
ably brave fellow. As Lieut. Dobbins passed him on the field, while 
charging on the enemy, he stopped a moment to give a word of con- 
solation to the dying man ; as he left him, he said, " Have a good 
heart, you will yet be well." The poor fellow raised his eyes, and 
vivaciously replied, " faith, I have a good heart — it is as big as a 
meeting-house." All the night ensuing, his poor wife sat upon the 
field, the stiffened corse of her husband resting on her lap, her little 
child asleep by her side. As the sun rose in the morning, she was 
discovered, surrounded with the dead, her head upon her husband's 
breast, absorbed in grief. As the day wore on, the stench of the field 
became offensive ; but still she held her seat by the side of the life- 
less clay, and in paroxysms of overwhelming sorrow, she was torn 
from the dead, that it might be consigned to its mother earth. 

The last sepulchral rites having been performed for our own coun- 
trymen, humanity dictated the same respect to the fallen foe. Many 
of the wounded, and all of the dead of the Mexican army, had been 
left upon the field; and as the sun rose high in the heavens, and 
poured its scorching rays upon these mouldering masses, the scent of 
blood filled the air. The buzzard, high above, wheeled in lessening 
circles over its prospective feast, while the foul jackals, that had made 
the night hideous with their moans, were seen surlily skulking from 
the eyes of our soldiery, who were busy in gathering together the 
Mexican dead for burial in one common grave. 

On the morning of the 11th, Gen. Arista having previously pro- 
posed an exchange of prisoners, Adjt. Gen. Mareno of the Mexican 
forces, announced to the American prisoners in Matamoros, that they 
would cross the river to the American side, to be exchanged as pri- 
soners of war. It needs no penetration to anticipate that this order 
was obeyed with great alacrity. 

Upon the glorious field of Resaca de la Palma, there still remained 
a portion of the victorious army, and with it the Mexicans captured 
in the battle. The gallant little band with Capt. Thornton, no longer 
mounted upon their war-steeds, but on foot, and without arms, silently 
marched on to the battle field, and in presence of their former com- 
panions. The beam of pleasure lighted up many a stern face, at the 

8 



114 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

recognition of familiar faces, but no compliments were passed, or 
greetings exchanged, as among meeting friends : the returned were 
still prisoners of war. 

The Americans, numbering fifty-three privates, were with their offi- 
cers, arranged in line, by Gen. Mareno. The Mexican prisoners were 
formed opposite them, by order of Col. Twiggs. These officers then 
placed themselves near each other, between and at the head of the two 
lines. Col. Twiggs then called out from among the Mexican prisoners, 
Don ' — > — , and a mulatto-looking gentleman, fantas- 
tically dressed, stepped out. Gen. Mareno called out, Capt. Thorn- 
ton ; as that officer stepped forward, the two prisoners crossed over 
into their own ranks, and thus completed their exchange. An old 
adage says, " A fair exchange is no robbery :" the Mexicans may not 
have considered themselves aggrieved, but we think that Thornton was 
worth as many Mexican captains as could be mustered in all the 
savannas of their country. 

Capt. Hardee, and Lieut. Kane, with like ceremony, passed over to 
the American ranks ; then came the non-commissioned officers and 
privates, successively called, until all were exchanged. Sergeant Allen 
was called out from among the American prisoners ; a Mexican ser- 
geant was produced, instanter, when the commanding officer was 
informed that Allen was not a sergeant, but had been reduced to a 
private. Col. Twiggs remanded the Mexican sergeant back into the 
prisoner line ; the poor fellow, supposing he was not going to be ex- 
changed for, petitioned to be permitted to pass, in a manner truly 
affecting ; at least, it overcame Col. Twiggs' heart, for he gave the 
Mexican sergeant for an American private, with the remark, that he 
believed he still had the best bargain. There were a large number 
of Mexican prisoners left, who would have ever remained in bondage, 
if they had waited to be regularly exchanged ; they were handed over 
to their countrymen, with the wounded, a receipt being taken of their 
number, to be held against the Mexicans, if the fortune of war ever 
throws our countrymen into their hands. Gen. Vega was offered his 
parole ; he declined it, on the ground that his government would, in 
spite of it, force him to bear arms ; he, with Col. Martinez, and ten 
other Mexicans, his friends, therefore remained prisoners of war. 

Our own wounded of the 8th and 9th were placed in the best con- 



A VISIT OF CEREMONY. 115 

veyances that could be had, covered ox wagons, and thus conveyed 
to Point Isabel. Capt. Hooe was fortunate in having provided for 
him Gen. Arista's private carriage, the morocco cushions and delicate 
springs doing much to alleviate the pain that would have ensued, in 
a conveyance such as was used by the less fortunate. There was no 
travelling hospital attached to the army, and consequently the surgeons 
had to perform their work in the open field, frequently with the shot 
of the enemy's guns flying about them. Yet, probably there were 
never fewer cases of death, as the result of severe wounds, than oc- 
curred among those of Palo Alto, and Resaca de la Palma. 

On the morning of the 11th, Gen. Taylor started for Point Isabel, 
for the purpose of having communication with Com. Conner. Com. 
Conner, while cruising with his fleet off Vera Cruz, had heard of re- 
inforcements being continually sent to Matamoros for the purpose of 
cutting off the " Army of Occupation." With the greatest promptness 
he sailed for Brazos Santiago, with the determination to aid Gen. 
Taylor, if necessary. Nothing could have been more opportune : the 
appearance of the fleet, and the reinforcements from it, strengthened 
the point beyond the possibility of its being successfully carried by 
the Mexicans. The transformation of five hundred sailors and marines 
into " land lubbers," afforded a spectacle that occasioned much relief 
to the dullness of the point ; and " Jack's" soliloquies upon his being 
ashore on his " beam ends," with a musket in his hands, were among 
the many chapters of the excessively humorous, that enliven the sad- 
dest associations of the " horrors of war." 

The singular simplicity that marks Gen. Taylor's personal appear- 
ance and habits, has become a subject of universal fame. It is curious 
that a soldier, so eminent in all the qualities of discipline, should be 
so citizen-looking in his own appearance. Com. Conner, on the con- 
trary, is an officer that is not only strict in his dress, but has an extra 
nicety about it. He appears in full and splendid uniform on all 
public occasions, being the exact counterpart, in this particular, of 
Gen. Taylor. 

At the proper time, Com. Conner sent word to Gen. Taylor, that 
he would come on shore to pay him a visit of ceremony. This put 
old "Rough and Ready" into a tremendous excitement. If Com. 
Conner had quietly come up to his tent, and given him a sailor's 



116 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

gripe, and sat down on a camp chest, and talked over matters in an 
old-fashioned way, Gen. Taylor would have been prepared; but, to 
have the most carefully-dressed officer in our navy, commanding the 
finest fleet, come in full uniform, surrounded by all the glittering pomp 
of splendid equipments, — to pay a visit of ceremony, was more than 
Gen. Taylor had, without some effort, nerve to go through with ; but, 
ever equal to emergencies, he determined to compliment Com. Conner, 
and through him the navy, by ajjpearing in full uniform, a thing his 
officers, associated with him for years, had never witnessed. 

In the meanwhile, Com. Conner was cogitating over the most pro- 
per way to compliment Gen. Taylor. Having heard of his peculiar 
disregard of military dress, he concluded he would make the visit in 
a manner comporting to Gen. Taylor's habits, and consequently 
equipped himself in plain white drilling, and unattended, came ashore. 

The moment Gen. Taylor heard that Com. Conner had landed, he 
abandoned some heavy work he was personally attending to about 
the camp, and precipitately rushed into his tent, delved at the bottom 
of an old chest, and pulled out a uniform coat, that had peacefully 
slumbered for years in undisturbed quietude, slipped himself into it, 
in his haste fastening it so that one side of the standing collar was 
three button holes above the other, and sat himself down as uncom- 
fortable as can well be imagined. With quiet step, and unattended, 
Com. Conner presented himself at Gen. Taylor's tent, the noble 
representatives of the army and navy shook hands, both in exceeding 
astonishment at each others' personal appearance. 

The wags in the army say, that the above contains the only au- 
thentic account of Gen. Taylor's ever being " headed," and that since 
that time, he has taken to linen roundabouts, of the largest dimen- 
sions, with more pertinacity than ever. 

Major Ringgold reached Point Isabel with the wounded of Palo 
Alto, on the evening following the battle, under the charge of Dr. 
Byrne. He was immediately placed in the very best quarters that could 
be afforded, and his wounds were dressed. He complained but little, 
and at intervals slept. In his waking moments, he spoke of the inci- 
dents of the battle, and dwelt particularly upon the effects of the 
artillery. He spoke of the precision with which his guns were used, 
and lamented that the artillery companies were not increased to one 



DEATH OF MAJOR RINGGOLD. 



117 



hundred strong ; he said, as his men fell about their pieces, he had 
none to take their places. 

On the evening of the 11th, the report spread that the heretofore 
sanguine expectations of his recovery by his fellow soldiers were not 
to be realised ; that his strength was falling fast with the passing day. 
As the night wore on, death came upon him, yet he seemed uncon- 
scious of its approach, and continued to converse with his friends 
about him. Suddenly he appeared conscious himself that his hours 
were numbered, but it produced no effect upon his tone of voice, or 
the spirit of his conversation. Dr. Byrne used all his skill in vain ; 
at a little past midnight, he raised his delicate hand to his forehead, 
wet with the cold sweat of dissolution, and said, " Thank God the 
brain is the last to die." He then cheerfully gave a few directions for his 
friends to observe when he was dead, and resignedly breathed his 
last. 

Three o'clock, the hour appointed for Major Ringgold's funeral, 
came, and the army and navy vied to honor his remains ; members 
of both arms of the service acted as pall bearers, and moved in the 
solemn train. It was a costly sacrifice to the manes of war when the 
gallant Ringgold fell. The slow march that filled the air as the pro- 
cession moved along, seemed to keep time with each saddened heart. 




Grave of Major Ringgold. 



Major Ringgold was buried just outside the entrenchments at Point 
Isabel. The small mound that marks his grave would not be distin- 



118 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

guished, except on a broad prairie, destitute almost of all else beside. 
The stormy breeze of the gulf at night moans over him, and the sol- 
dier and citizen, as they pass, step a moment aside to contemplate, 
and drop a tear over the sacred remains. 

The 12th was busily occupied by Gen. Taylor in preparing to start 
for his camp on the Rio Grande : amid his numerous engagements, he 
found time to write the following despatch : 

Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Point Isabel, Texas, May 12, 1846. 

Sir : — I am making a hasty visit to this place, for the purpose of 
having an interview with Com. Conner, whose squadron is now at 
anchor off the harbor, and arranging with him a combined movement 
up the river. I avail myself of the brief time at my command to report 
that the main body of the army is now occupying its former position 
opposite Matamoros. The Mexican forces are almost disorganised, 
and I shall lose no time in investing Matamoros, and opening the 
navigation of the river. 

I regret to report that Major Ringgold died the morning of the 11th 
instant, of the severe wound received in the action of Palo Alto. With 
the exception of Capt. Page, whose wound is dangerous, the other 
wounded officers are doing well. In my report of the second engage- 
ment, I accidentally omitted the name of Lieut. Dobbins, Third In- 
fantry, among the officers slightly wounded, and desire that the 
omission may be supplied in the despatch itself. I am under the 
painful necessity of reporting that Lieut. Blake, Topographical En- 
gineers, after rendering distinguished service in my staff during the 
affair of the 8th instant, accidentally shot himself with a pistol on the 
following day, and expired before night. 

It has been quite impossible as yet to furnish detailed reports of 
our engagements with the enemy, or even accurate returns of the 
killed and wounded. Our loss is not far from three officers and forty 
men killed, and thirteen officers and one hundred men wounded ; 
while that of the enemy has in all probability exceeded three hundred 
killed ; more than two hundred have been buried by us on the two 
fields of battle. 

I have exchanged a sufficient number of prisoners to recover the 
command of Capt. Thornton. The wounded prisoners have been sent 



GEN. TAYLOR'S DESPATCH. 119 

to Matamoros — the wounded officers on their parole. Gen. Vega 
and a few other officers have been sent to New Orleans, having de- 
clined a parole, and will be reported to Major Gen. Gaines. I am not 
conversant with the usages of war in such cases, and beg that such 
provision may be made for these prisoners as may be authorised by 
law. Our own prisoners have been treated with great kindness by 
the Mexican officers. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., Commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



120 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER XV. 

Gen. Taylor starts for camp — Returns — Lieut. Col. Wilson's command — 
Taking of Barita — Appearance of it — Proclamation — Preparations for tak- 
ing Matamoros — Armistice proposed — Ceremonies thereof— Death of Lieut. 
Stevens — Raising of the flag — Disposition of the army — Head quarters 
of Gen. Taylor — Governor of Matamoros — Prefect — A plain talk — Lieut. 
Col. Garland pursues Arista — Is fired upon — Anecdote — The Rio Grande 
after the battles — The battle fields. 

On the morning of the 13th, Gen. Taylor and staff, with an escort 
of dragoons, started for camp. When but a few miles from the point, 
he was met by an express that had been sent to inform him that a 
large body of fresh troops were understood to have arrived at Mata- 
moros, and that the enemy was concentrating troops at Barita, a small 
village near the mouth of the Rio Grande, on the Mexican side of the 
river. He immediately returned to Point Isabel, determining to start 
for his camp the next day. At the point he found quite an accession 
to his force had just arrived from New Orleans, including regulars and 
volunteers from Louisiana and Alabama. These were the first that 
arrived from those states, in answer to the call of Gen. Taylor for 
reinforcements. 

The activity of Gen. Taylor, and the mass of business that he per- 
forms, is astonishing. From the 1st of the month, up to the present 
time, he had not had a regular time for eating or sleeping. Dressed 
in the garb of a common farmer, and seated in a Jersey wagon, on 
the morning of the 14th he again started for his camp, with over six 
hundred men, a train of artillery, and two hundred and fifty wagons, 
loaded with army stores, having previously arranged a plan, and or- 
ganised a force, to attack Barita. 

Accordingly, Lieut. Col. Wilson, First Infantry, with four compa- 
nies of United States troops, two companies of Louisiana volunteers, 
under the commands of Captains I. F. Stockton, and G. H. Tobin, and 
one company of Alabama volunteers, under command of Gen R. Desha, 
got ready to march to Barita. The command was landed at the Brazos, 
about one o'clock in the afternoon of the 15th, and immediately took 



TAKING OF BARITA. 121 

up its line of march, three steamers at the same time being ordered to 
ascend the river, and transport the troops across it, at the proper place. 
Com. Conner ordered part of his fleet off the mouth of the river, to 
assist in crossing the soldiers, and to aid, if necessary, in the attack, 
with the men of the fleet. Col. Wilson proceeded up the banks of 
the river, momentarily expecting an attack from the Mexican cavalry 
that were said to be in the vicinity. Contrary to expectations, he took 
possession of Barita, without firing a gun, the inhabitants fleeing be- 
fore his approach. 

The town was found to be most romantically situated on the banks 
of the river, upon a high bluff, surrounded by the very richest quality 
of land. It was composed of a number of huts, the most important 
of which was the custom-house, as is usual in all Mexican towns. 
The inhabitants were found to be idle, living almost without labor, 
upon the spontaneous productions of the prolific soil. Col. Wilson, 
on taking possession of the place, issued a manifesto to the inhabit- 
ants, stating that they might return to their dwellings, that their lives 
and property would be protected, and all their civil and religious 
rights guaranteed to them. He then commenced and soon com- 
pleted a breast-work, which, from the peculiar character of its posi- 
tion, would command the passage of the river, and the surrounding 
country. Barita, from that time, became an important resting-place 
for our troops, who go to Matamoros by way of the mouth of the 
river. 

The people soon returned to their dwellings, and however much 
they were surprised at the approach of our troops, their wonder knew 
no bounds, when they were paid a fair price for their property by an 
armed force, who had already taken possession of it without opposi- 
tion, by the mere exhibition of their arms. 

Gen. Taylor arrived at his camp, from Point Isabel, without having 
met with the enemy. On the evening of the 14th, he determined to 
make an attack on Matamoros, if possible, the following day. Two 
large sixteen-inch mortars had arrived, which were set so as to throw 
shell into the city, if it was not surrendered without opposition. Two 
days, however, were consumed in preparation, it being almost impos- 
sible to obtain boats of any description, to cross our troops to the 
east side of the river. On the morning of the 17th, all preparations 



OUR ARMY ON THE" RIO GRANDE. 

were completed. It was arranged, that at the same time Gen. Taylor 
made his demonstration on Matamoros, Col. Wilson should advance 
from Barita. 

Orders had been given to Col. Twiggs to cross, when Gen. Taylor 
was waited on by the Mexican Gen. Reguena, empowered by Gen. 
Arista to treat for an armistice, until the two governments finally 
settled the difficulties pending. This cunning, on the part of the 
Mexican chief, was too apparent to Gen. Taylor ; he was aware that 
Matamoros was filled with the munitions of war, and time was only 
wanted to move them off. Gen. Taylor replied promptly to Gen. Re- 
guena, that an armistice could not be granted; he recapitulated the 
circumstances of the preceding month, when he had himself proposed 
an armistice, which Gen. Ampudia had declined. He stated that he 
was receiving large reinforcements — that he would not then suspend 
hostilities which he had not invited or provoked ; he also said that 
the possession of Matamoros was a " sine qua non," and that the .Ame- 
rican troops would occupy the city, at the same time giving to Gen. 
Arista and his forces leave to withdraw from the town, leaving behind 
the public property of every description. Gen. Taylor remarked, that 
" Generals Ampudia and Arista had promised that the war should be 
conducted agreeably to the usage of civilised nations, and yet the 
Mexican forces had, in the battles of the 8th and 9th, stripped our 
dead, and mutilated their bodies." Gen. Reguena replied, " that the 
ivomen( !) and rancheros did it, and that they could not be controlled." 
Gen. Taylor said, he would come over to Matamoros, and control 
such people for them. 

Gen. Reguena then left Gen. Taylor, pledging himself that at 3 
o'clock that evening he would come over with an answer from Gen. 
Arista. Gen. Taylor, accordingly, for the time, suspended his prepa- 
rations for crossing. 

The answer promised by Reguena to be delivered to Gen. Taylor, 
positively at 3 o'clock, did not come. Gen. Taylor immediately 
ordered preparations to be made for crossing the river ; parties were 
sent up and down the river to secure all the boats that could be seen 
on either side. That night, just after dark, the army moved up the 
river, and encamped opposite the contemplated crossing. 

On the morning of the 18th Capt. Bliss, assistant adjutant general 



THE ARMY CROSSES THE RIVER. 123 

of the " Army of Occupation," Major Craig, Capt. Miles, and Lieut. 
Britton, appeared on the banks of the Rio Grande, and sounded a 
parley. Lieut. Britton then crossed the river with a white flag, and 
met a deputation of citizens from the prefect, who was the official 
civil representative of the city. The deputation wished to know the 
cause of the parley ? Lieut. Britton replied, that Capt. Bliss, aid to 
the commanding general, wished to see the prefect in person, or, 
whoever was the commanding officer of the city, as he had an offi- 
cial communication for him from his chief. The deputation crossed 
the river with Lieut. Britton, met Capt. Bliss, and invited the Ameri- 
can deputation to Matamoros. The American deputation crossed 
over, and met the prefect in his office, which was situated on the 
north west side of the Plaza. Capt. Bliss then delivered to the pre- 
fect a letter from Gen. Taylor, which demanded a surrender of the 
town and all the public stores therein, stating, at the same time, that 
his general had commanded him to say that the rights of individuals 
should be protected, that their religion should be respected, and that 
their courts of law and justice should proceed as they had done under 
the Mexican government, unless interfering with the rights of our 
government, and the necessary operations of the commanding general. 
Capt. Bliss asked the prefect to answer in positive terms, whether he 
could return and report to his general, that the town would be given 
up without a blow, or whether it would be necessary to carry it at 
the point of the sword, (as in either emergency, Gen. Taylor was de- 
termined to have it.) The prefect then answered, " Gen. Taylor can 
march his troops into the city at any hour that may suit his conve- 
nience." Capt. Bliss then said, " here let the interview terminate." 

While this conversation was going on, our army was crossing 
above the city. The east bank was defended by two eighteen-pounders, 
and the three batteries of our artillery. Col. Twiggs ordered the re- 
gimental bands to strike up Yankee Doodle. The light companies of 
all battalions first went over, followed by the volunteer and regular 
cavalry. 

Lieut. Hays, of the Fourth Infantry, and ten select men, with Capt. 
Walker, of the Rangers, first crossed the river with orders to ascer- 
tain and report the number and position of the enemy, if near the 
river. Immediately after Lieut. Hays had gone over, the flank com- 



124 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

panies of the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Infantry, were thrown across, 
commanded by Capt. Buchanan, and Capt. Larned. After these com- 
mands there followed Capt. Smith, of the Artillery battalion, with two 
companies, followed by Capt. Ker's squadron of dragoons. After 
this force had crossed, Ridgely's Artillery was dismounted, and taken 
over in parts. In the mean time, the infantry already over had taken 
possession of a strong place, to be ready for an attack. In the midst 
of these busy operations, Capt. Bliss arrived, and informed Gen. 
Taylor of his interview with the prefect, and of the unconditional 
surrender of the town. Gen. Taylor immediately ordered that portion 
of the American forces that had not crossed the river, to return to 
Fort Brown and cross there. Capt. Ker, of the Dragoons, passed be- 
low where the troops were crossing, and raised upon the walls of 
Fort Paredes, the star spangled tanner, unfolding it in proud de- 
fiance upon the west side of the Rio Grande. 

The different regiments already on the west side of the Rio Grande 
were marched to their respective places of encampment, without noise 
or disorder, save when the flag of our country was unexpectedly seen 
waving from Fort Paredes ; discipline then gave way to feeling, and 
nine hearty cheers rent the air, and announced the occupation of Ma- 
tamoros by American troops. 

That evening a small guard was established in Matamoros, to keep 
the peace. No troops, except under command, visited it that night. 
The Matamorians slept securely under the protection of the American 
government, a boon ever denied them by their own. 

Upon inquiry, it became evident that Gen. Reguena had been sent 
over to Gen. Taylor merely to gain time ; that, even while he was 
negociating for the surrender of the city, Arista's troops were throw- 
ing the public stores into the river, burying pieces of artillery in 
wells, and concealing other portions of the public stores in out-of-the 
way places about the city. Arista commenced his retreat on the 
evening that Gen. Reguena promised to bring a message from him to 
Gen. Taylor, taking with him two pieces of artillery, and over four 
thousand men, leaving behind his sick and wounded. 

A gloom was thrown over the brilliant events of this day by a most 
unfortunate accident ; Lieut. George Stevens, a graduate of West Point 
in 1843, and a most promising officer in the Second Dragoons, was 



OCCUPATION OF MATAMOROS. 125 

swept by the swift current from his horse, while crossing the river at 
the head of his command. He had distinguished himself on the bril- 
liant days of the 8th and 9th, and his untimely death was universally 
lamented. His friends, two days after he was drowned, had the me- 
lancholy satisfaction of recovering his body, and giving it the cere- 
monies of a soldier's burial within the walls of Fort Brown, beside 
the gallant hero that gave it his name. 

Immediately upon taking possession of Matamoros our troops were 
distributed so as to occupy the upper and lower suburbs of the town, 
a small guard only being stationed in the city itself. Col. Twiggs' 
command was stationed above the city along the banks of the river, 
his own head quarters occupying a romantic spot directly on its brink. 
Gen. Worth's command was located in the bend of the river below, 
having a fine view from his tent, and Lieut. Col. Belknap's of the sur- 
rounding country. 

Directly opposite Col. Belknap's, were to be seen a few torn tents, 
and a number of wiry-looking horses. They marked the head quar- 
ters of Capt. Walker, of the Rangers. From Col. Twiggs' tent you could 
see the volunteer regiment stretching away west, almost as far as the 
eye could reach, centering around the Fanques del Raminero, and 
then scattering off in little groups. The Seventh regiment nestled 
beneath the walls of Fort Brown, which they had so nobly defended. 
Gen. Taylor found a few trees that appeared to be higher than their 
neighbours, under which he pitched his " head quarters ;" they could 
only be recognised from the tents about them by their disposition — ■ 
they were arranged for shade, and not with military precision. 

Col. Twiggs was appointed " Governor of the Town, 1 ' and to his 
especial care was intrusted the taking possession of the military 
stores left by the Mexican army. Don Jesus Cardenas, the prefect 
of Matamoros at the time Gen. Taylor took possession, was distin- 
guished among his fellow citizens for oppression, and for his hatred 
to foreigners. In surrendering the city, the prefect's only care was 
to know if he could retain his office. He never stipulated for any pri- 
vileges for the citizens, or seemed in any way to think of their in- 
terests. Immediately upon Col. Twiggs taking command, he sent for 
this notable Cardenas, and asked him for an inventory of the public 
property. He stated, positively, that he knew of none, and persisted 



326 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

in declaring that none was left by the Mexican forces when they 
evacuated the city. Col. Twiggs dismissed him, and entering the city 
with information obtained from other quarters, soon began to find vast 
quantities of military stores, in almost all the out-of-the-way places 
about the Plaza. 

This outrageous trifling on the part of the prefect Col. Twiggs was 
determined to notice. Accordingly he waited upon him the following 
morning at his office, to give the gentleman what is denominated a 
M plain talk." The colonel laboured under one difficulty — eloquent 
himself, it was a great drawback to have it marred by an indifferent 
translator. Fortunately, an American citizen by the name of Dugden, 
a very intelligent gentleman of Matamoros, and an object of the pre- 
fect's special oppression, offered his services as an interpreter. u I 
wish to give this falsifying prefect a proper notion of his conduct,' 1 
said the colonel, with a variety of explicatures. u Can you, Mr. Dug- 
den, do justice to what I say?" Mr. Dugden assented, and " the Go- 
vernor" laid down the first paragraph of his lecture in English. Dug- 
den did justice to what was said, and, it was thought, added a little 
on his own responsibility, much to the gratification of the governor. 

The prefect, bearded in his own den, began to turn a variety of co- 
lors : his consternation increased, as the citizens of the town crowded 
into his office, and, by the wildest expressions of delight, testified their 
pleasure at what was going on. The prefect literally trembled in his 
shoes, and promised to act better and honestly point out the hidden 
treasures. But he prevaricated so constantly, that he was finally dis- 
missed, and ejected from the shadow of the office he still held, and 
he left the city, it was supposed to join Arista or some other general 
in the interior. 

The day following the taking of Matamoros, Lieut. Col. Garland, 
with all the regular and irregular cavalry of the army, about two hun- 
dred and fifty dragoons and rangers, started in pursuit of the retreating 
Mexicans, with orders to harass their rear, and to capture prisoners 
and baggage. On the 22d, Col. Garland returned from his pursuit. 
He succeeded in capturing a small rear party, after a slight show of 
resistance on their part, in which two Mexicans were killed, and 
twenty-two taken prisoners, two of our own troops slightly wounded, 
and one wagon with ammunition and clothing of an artillery com- 



THE BATTLE FIELDS. 127 

pany captured. The scarcity of water, the barrenness of the country, 
and the condition of the horses, compelled Col. Garland to return to 
Matamoros, he having penetrated over sixty miles into the enemy's 
country. 

The army of the Mexicans under Gen. Arista, was but twenty-four 
hours ahead of our cavalry, retreating in good order, our officers 
stopped at the ranches where the enemy had, the night previous. A 
ranchero, at one of these stopping places, inquired with great sim- 
plicity of Capt. Graham, where the Americans were going; he was 
told in pursuit of the retreating Mexican army. " Retreating army !" 
said the fellow with astonishment, " why Gen. Ampudia stopped at 
my house last night, and said that his troops had conquered the Ame- 
ricans, and that he was now on his way to Mexico to take the news." 
The man remained confounded, for it was impossible for him to be- 
lieve his nation had been whipped in battle, and still more incompre- 
hensible, that a small number of American dragoons should seriously 
and for purposes of war, really drive before them over three thousand 
troops. 

For several successive days after the precipitate retreat of the Mexi- 
cans, the bodies of drowned Mexican soldiers were thrown ashore by 
the current of the river. Among the mass, were distinguishable seve- 
ral officers. Arista, in his official despatch, mentions two who thus 
met their death. The body of Father Leary was taken out of the 
water near the fort, his canonicals still on, and his cross clutched 
tightly in his hand. As the Rio Grande fell, it left suspended to the 
overhanging trees, the bodies caught in the meshes of their branches ; 
thus they hung in the air, until they dropped piece-meal into the 
water below. The very river itself, for awhile, became offensive ; 
mutilated corses floated along, attacked by the voracious cat-fish, 
causing them to twitch and roll about, as if still in the agonies of 
death. 

On the battle fields, more glaringly horrible effects of war were pre- 
sented ; in the lone places in the deep chaparral, lay the mouldering 
bodies of those of the wounded who had crawled away to die. 
Buzzards and carrion crows, wheeled in excentric circles over these 
unmade graves; beetles and foul insects burrowed beneath them; 
jackals, at night, dug their way into the mounds of the dead, exposing 



123 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



the interior corruption to the passer-by. The descending rains would 
beat down the arch made by these desecrations, and the pile marking 
where a hundred Mexicans lay, gradually sunk, until it seemed as if 
the remains of so many human beings scarcely disfigured the surface 
of the earth. A few months, or years passed away, all vestiges will 
be gone. The result of so great a sacrifice, will be the memory of a 
few glorious deeds ; the suffering, the sin, the dreadful offences in the 
sight of heaven, will only have permanent record in another world. 

With the return of Lieut. Col. Garland's command from the pursuit 
of Gen. Arista, ended the first great act in the history of the operations 
of our army on the Rio Grande. 



MATAMOROS. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

Early history of Matamoros — It becomes important to the government — Its 
situation — Appearance from Fort Brown — Red tower — The ferry Anaciiita 
— Its attendants — Ferrymen — Ranchero — Cattle driving — Sudden order — 
Suburbs of Matamoros — Mexican hedge — Sand-bag fort battery — Changes 
— Commander-in-chief. 

Matamoros, situated in the department of Tamaulipas, is one of 
the largest cities in Northern Mexico, and from the American occupa- 
tion of it, has suddenly become a place of intense interest to us. The 
17th of May, 1846, the day on which it was taken possession of by 
our troops, is destined to mark an important era in our national his- 
tory, and, probably, in that of the world. 

It is said, that at the close of the last century, a small farm was 
situated where Matamoros now stands, and according to Mexican cus- 
tom, it rejoiced in a cognomen proportionately magnificent to the in- 
significance of the thing named. The Rancho was known, therefore, as 
that of San Juan de los Esteros. About the year 1801, a missionary 
wandered from the interior of the country to the north, and finally came 
to the bank of the Rio Grande. Charmed with the country, he resolved 
to establish a mission at San Juan de los Esteros, and wishing to begin 
every thing anew, he changed the name to the more popular one of 
Congregacion del Refugio, thus setting forth to the world, from the 
very commencement, an inducement for the oppressed to flee to this 
retreat, which formed the site of the future city of Matamoros. 

As late as 1826, when the " Refugio" was approaching its maximum 
of worldly greatness, the supreme legislature of the department in 
which it is situated, having occasion to draw largely upon the inhabit- 
ants for extraordinary taxes, in return granted them the compliment- 
ary title of Ville de Matamoros. This would have been considered 
most honorable indeed, by the Spaniards who conquered the Alham- 
bra, as the name of the city signified that its inhabitants had distin- 
guished themselves in the wars with the Moors ; a distinction earned, 
perhaps, by a few of their early progenitors. 

In the year 1835, the " supreme legislature," having farther use for 

9 



130 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE, 

money, honored Matamoros with the new appendage of Puerto, and 
followed it up by the appointment of a series of rapacious and unprin- 
cipled custom-house officers, who held their uninterrupted sway until 
the American forces under Gen. Taylor took possession of the city. 

Matamoros is situated upon the west bank of the Rio Grande, thirty- 
five miles from its mouth in a straight line, and over one hundred by 
the way of the river. It is well laid out, the streets crossing each 
other at right angles. Above the northern ferry stands Fort Paredes, 
a work constructed with considerable attention to military art ; the 
other " forts " around the city being little else than earth embank- 
ments, thrown up to protect the men who were at the pieces used 
during the bombardment. 

The Rio Grande, Rio del Norte, or Rio Bravo, as the Mexicans 
severally term it, is the largest river near Mexico, and one of the 
longest in the world. It is throughout a river of pleasant scenery, 
frequently passing through highly picturesque and broken land ; ap- 
proaching towards its mouth, it courses through a prairie country. It 
is remarkably straight as a whole, and runs swiftly, hence its name 
of " Mad river." — There being no timber on its banks, it is not filled 
with snags, but presents a clear, canal-like appearance. In the vicinity 
of Matamoros, the channel is so narrow that a strong man can throw 
a stone across it, and conversation can be carried on by persons on 
opposite sides of the river with ease. The banks are covered with 
strong wiry grass, most excellent for grazing cattle, interspersed with 
chaparral, and the stunted mosquete tree. The land on the edge of 
the river is, in many places, as rich as the imagination can conceive. 

The city of Matamoros, viewed from the opposite side of the river, 
seems imbedded in the luxuriant charms of a fine level country, loaded 
with rich vegetation. — The first glimpse of it will always make an 
impression of pleasure and astonishment. The city is not immediately 
on the river. Its trade being carried on principally with the interior, 
and its carrying being done by mules, there has been no inducement, 
as in American cities, to build immediately on the water's edge for 
the convenience of commerce. The city therefore appears buried up 
in a vast garden, which seems to encircle it,, its houses and towers 
thrusting themselves up from among surrounding vegetation. 

The late operations of the Mexican army probably caused the first 



DESCRIPTION OF MATAMOROS. 131 

labor of any importance immediately upon the river bank. You now 
see two small forts, connected together by triangular breastworks. 
But for these hastily-thrown-up breastworks, the banks of the Rio 
Grande would look as primitive as they did when the Spaniard first 
visited them. 

The city of Matamoros can be traced a mile up and down the river. 
At its extreme eastern limit is " Fort Paredes," on the walls of which 
was raised the first United States flag by American troops in Mexico. 
As you look westward, you„ perceive the city losing itself in the dis- 
tance in little gardens, and still farther on, can be traced the hedges 
that mark the small cotton fields of the Mexican planter. 

The buildings look well ; many appear remarkably fine. A splendid 
private residence, built of brick, and yellow washed, is quite con- 
spicuous, and known as the head quarters of Gen. Mejia, previous to 
the retreat of the Mexicans. Upon its top can be seen the flagstaff's 
of the English and French consuls. A large building just beyond, 
presenting a white gable, has an immense hole between the upper 
windows, made by one of our eighteen-pound shot. A row of Anglo- 
American looking houses can be distinguished, that are owned and 
occupied by foreign merchants living in Matamoros. 

Two unfinished towers may be discerned with some difficulty ; they 
are above the roof of the cathedral that bounds one side of the Flaza. 
On the extreme south-east of the city, rises a small red tower, appa- 
rently that of a church. Soon after our troops encamped on the east 
side of the Rio Grande, in the direction of that tower were often heard 
the muffled drum, and quick rollings of musketry. The sounds be- 
tokened the burial of the soldier dead, or the ruthless murder of some 
unfortunate offender of the military tyrant that held sway over the 
Mexican troops. The known cruelty of the Mexican generals, not 
only to their enemies, but to their own troops, gave to that red tower 
a startling and curious interest. To the right of the white house we 
have alluded to as being struck by the eighteen-pound ball, is a square 
block of buildings, apparently surrounded by a wall, from which rises 
a flagstaff. This square of buildings was occupied, when in possession 
of the Mexican troops, by a regiment they called the sapedores, con- 
sidered to be the best disciplined corps in the Mexican service. Here 
Lieut. Deas was confined while a prisoner. Matamoros, from the 



132 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

regularity with which it is laid out, the great number of what appear 
to be familiar-looking houses, and the everywhere growing shrubbery, 
when viewed from a distance by an American eye, has anything else 
than a foreign look. 

Passing up the banks of the river, perhaps a quarter of mile above 
Fort Brown, along a fine road, constantly filled by wagon trains, 
groups of soldiers, and stragglers generally, you come to the ferry 
ealled Anaciiita, nearly opposite Fort Paredes. The scene that it 
presents throughout the day, is one of the most novel to be met with 
on the Rio Grande. Upon the top of the bank are two or three rude 
sheds, made of limbs of trees and brush, just high enough to accomo- 
date some half dozen dark swarthy Mexicans, in a sitting posture, who 
have for sale " hot corn," and a vile, soul-sickening compound, de- 
nominated by the Americans " beer," together with tortillas, cheese, 
and lumps of maple sugar. On their right and left are large piles of 
copper shells, copper balls, parts of gun-carriages, and hundreds of old 
muskets and lances. This heterogeneous mass of " military stores," 
is a portion of the immense quantity being brought out of Matamoros 
by wagons marked U. S., to be deposited for safe keeping within the 
walls of Fort Brown. 

The crowd, in part, is composed of all the variety of blood in the 
world, with specimens of all possible variety of mixtures. Northern 
States, Middle States, Western States, Southern States, and no states 
at all, have strong delegations ; dark swarthy Frenchmen, and darker 
and swarthier Spaniards, are in juxta-position ; native Mexicans are 
plentiful, of every possible variety of mongrelness, so that no two are 
exactly the same shade, for in color they range from the yellow buff, 
through every variety of nankeen, deepening into the brownish red 
of the aborigines, and running still lower in the scale of creation, until 
the hair abandons the straight black, and kinks into wool, to cover 
heads a white man denominates negro. Yet these vari-colored people 
are good specimens of what they themselves are pleased to denominate 
the " magnanimous Mexican nation." A great number of this group 
were soldiers in the battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, and 
some of them, particularly those most shabbily dressed, were officers 
in command. 



THE FERRY. 133 

There is not much noise heard ; two or three stern-looking sen- 
tinels, that occupy the edge of the bank, and show no apparent inte- 
rest in what is going on, save when they give a fierce, contemptuous 
look towards these Mexicans, suffice to keep them silent and respectful. 
The "regulars" have too much discipline to be otherwise. The 
" volunteers " are the boys to kick up a fuss and dust, and but for 
their boisterous mirth, the ferry at Matamoros would be very noiseless, 
always excepting the eloquent appeals of Uncle Sam's wagon driver's 
to their " cattle," which are Mexican mules, that seem to look upon 
the conquest of the country by the Americans with more indignation 
than any other of the inhabitants, and display it by never doing a 
particle of work, if they can help it, and none at all, unless labored 
out of them by hard work, and harder swearing. 

The ferry flat is worked by two Mexicans, at a stated price per day. 
They have permanently fixed a rope across the river, and by it pull 
the flat to and fro, with considerable skill. One of them is en dislia- 
hille, which means undressed, without limitation, when applied to that 
ferryman : the other has the aggregate of one-eighth of a shirt, and a 
boot •, they are evidently jolly dogs, having work enough to do to make 
them happy, and keep them out of mischief, while their accumulating 
fortune from their labor at the flat, has undoubtedly raised them in 
the estimation of their countrymen, who, I noticed, laughed most 
heartily at their jokes, and paid them that deference usually bestowed 
by humble people upon men in a profitable government office. 

You are obliged to have patience at times at the Matamoros ferry, 
as well as at some other frontier towns, as the boat is not always 
ready to accommodate you on the instant ; so you can examine things 
about you. Here is a " ranchero," that wishes to sell his horse ; the 
poor animal has nothing left in his body from the hard usage he has 
received, but a vicious spirit. The fellow that has him for sale, stole 
him from an American that he sold him to the day before ; the ran- 
chero makes his living by selling that horse, and he will continue 
thus dishonestly to trade, until at some unlucky time, he will sell 
that horse to a " ranger," and when he is found out, his days will be 
numbered, and his father's son will bite the dust for his rascality. 



134 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 




Mexican Ranchero. 



There is a Mexican yonder, leaning gracefully on the pummel of 
his saddle ; his dress is that of a better class of citizens, and has a 
kind of theatrical banditti look, that would have delighted Mr. Crum- 
mels amazingly. His hat is a palmetto, of a rakish cut, covered with 
glazed cloth, and ornamented on the sides of the crown with silver 
balls, that resemble stop-cocks on the head of a steam boiler. These 
ornaments have caused a great deal of speculation in our minds, to 
comprehend the character of mental calibre and education, that con- 
ceives them to be useful and ornamental. His linen is of most excel- 
lent quality, and wrought with an abundance of needle-work. His 
pantaloons of dressed leather, ornamented with gay cord and a gross 
of metal buttons, opened from the hip down^ displaying most co- 
quetishly, wide white drawers. He is puffed up with the gas of self- 
esteem, as a hard-blown bladder is with wind, and seriously believes, 
that he is the most distinguished piece of humanity under the sun. 



A MEXICAN HEDGE. 135 

Whoop! crack! thwack! Whip, cut, slash, here is a dust and 
confusion — fifty head of large-horned and splendid-looking cattle 
won't go across the river, in spite of a horde of half-naked Mexicans 
who are determined they shall. The oxen reach the edge of the 
water in a drove, wet their hoofs, and then start back in a rush. Now 
commences a shower of blows over the face, eyes, and horns, of the 
poor animals ; a few rather tender-pated, plunge into the Rio Grande, 
their Mexican drivers leap in after, mount their backs, seize them by 
their horns, bend their heads cross the river, or under it, as they 
choose ; the oxen struggle across, the Mexicans tumble off their backs, 
retracing their way in the water, as glibly as if they were cat fish, and 
equally independent of the facilities of a ferry. The crowd continues 
to gather at the ferry, some hundred and fifty persons wish to cross the 
river, and the flat has started from the other side — a general rush ensues 
to the water's edge, as not more than one-third of ihe crowd present 
can be immediately accommodated. The flat touches the shore, and 
two opposing currents meet : one coining out of the flat and another 
going in — every thing is in confusion, horses and men tumble out of 
the flat, and men and horses tumble in ; a perfect babel of uttered 
language ensues, and a fair prospect of a war is presenting itself — 
when, an United States officer arrives — the sentinel salutes him — he 
orders the men to fall back — every thing becomes quiet in an instant 
again ; the ferried-over wend their way up the bank, and disperse 
among the different camps ; as many of the crowd as can be properly 
accommodated, follow the officer quietly into the flat, and away it 
goes with a full load for the Mexican side of the river. So passes 
each day of the ferry Jlnacuita, at Matamoros. 

After you get over the ferry, you have an open and picturesque 
road before you, of nearly a half mile to the city. Much to inte- 
rest presents itself, for every thing, to American eyes, is unlike " the 
familiar road-side." The hedge of a small cotton field, now broken 
down in places, is worthy of attention, for it is characteristic of the 
fences of the country. Their being no timber to split into " rails," 
the Mexican cannot disfigure the landscape with those awful " worm 
fences," that so mar our own fields ; on the contrary, he plants with 
some care the thorn bushes and delicate brush that every where grow 
spontaneously, strengthening them with the trunks of the palm tree. 



136 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

A thousand vines and wild flowers soon tressel over this " breast- 
work," binding it together in a solid mass ; and tropical birds with 
gay plumage, bury themselves in its interstices. A Mexican hedge, 
therefore, soon becomes a formidable defence against a foe, defies the 
most viciously disposed cattle intruders, offers a shade at noon, and is 
the place of resort for all the gay, the musical, and the beautiful of 
the feathered tribe. A large species of blackbird will much attract 
attention. It seems very tame and familiar ; a pair will generally be 
seen together mounted on some high limb, and performing a series of 
bowings and contortions truly wonderful to behold, throwing their 
heads into the air, burying them under their wings, then turning their 
feathers up with all imaginable roughness, and giving utterance to the 
strangest varied scream ever heard, the conclusion of which is like 
the whizzing, crashing sounds made by the breaking off and falling of 
a heavy limb of £ tree. Birds with a pale ashy plumage, and tails 
resembling those denominated " of Paradise," flit about, and a minia- 
ture dove, not larger in its body than a robin, pecks modestly in the 
dust, — the most beautiful and loveable bird we ever saw. 

This hedge leads to a poor Mexican farmer's cottage, that faces 
close upon the road, and as it represents its class, is worth examina- 
tion. The walls are made of reed, about three or four inches thick, 
and ingeniously held together by others running crosswise, not unlike 
rude basket work. The rafters of the house are made of gigantic 
reed, thatched most securely from admitting the rain, by long salt 
marsh grass, cut about the mouth of the Rio Grande. There are no 
windows — two doors, situated on either side, admit all the light and 
air its inhabitants indulge in. It is a mere lodging room after all in 
rainy weather, for the Mexicans of the poorer classes live out of doors, 
sleep under the shade of their stunted trees, or upon the door steps 
of their rude houses. The house is " a mere form," equally enjoyed 
by hens and chickens, pigs, goats, fleas, and other domestic animals. 
The " kitchen garden" looks inviting, though in waste, — splendid figs 
are ripening upon a wilderness of luxuriant trees, — pomegranates, 
with their russet sides, meet the eye, — tall green corn, of the best 
quality, waves in the constant breeze, — and, on the ground, there 
ripen in modest obscurity good looking squashes, that in size show a 
near relationship to the succulent pumpkin. In front of the house I 



A MEXICAN HUT. 



137 



noticed a large hole, occasioned by a shot thrown in the bombard- 
ment, — in the inside of it one of our own troops was sitting very 
comfortably on a bench, eating hot corn, evidently set before him by a 
Mexican woman, who, though she did no credit to her sex in the way 
of personal beauty, seemed to honor it by her hospitality. 




can Farm 



Just beyond this thatched house, you are turned off of the road by 
the " Sand-bag fort battery," a rough work, that afforded protection to 
three or four pieces of artillery in the bombardment of Fort Brown. 
The rain had already washed down some parts of the walls, and two 
or three big-headed mules seemed to hold it in full possession. 

The road every where is pleasant, and cottages are filling up with 
« cake and beer shops ;" the Americans, like their progenitors " across 
the waters," must be well fed to fight well, and this characteristic is 
taken advantage of to the great profit of innumerable hangers-on of 
the camp. In one of these little shops, I found the stock to consist 
of an empty claret box, a jug of whiskey, two tin cups, a few pounds 
of maple sugar, a pail of Rio Grande water, and a Mexican saddle 
worth one hundred and fifty dollars. You now get out of the fields, 
and come into the suburbs of the city, the road takes a sudden turn 



138 OUR ARMY ON THE, RIO GRANDE. 

to the right, and gives you an extended view down one of the streets 
that leads " way back towards Monterey." On your left you per- 
ceive the tortuous winding of the river reaching away towards its 
mouth, and upon the rolling land are the thousand tents belonging to 
our army. The tents stretch out before you for miles, until they grow 
into seeming white spots, looking like snow balls resting on the 
bluish sward. Nearer to you is an unfinished powder magazine, the 
workmen have abandoned it after raising its thick square walls — the 
ruins of houses are hidden away among the long weeds — a ranchero 
wends his way across the broken field, and two or three soldiers off 
duty stop him, to hold a long conversation in Irish, and English, and 
Spanish, and although they are entirely unacquainted with each others 
language, they seem very familiar and agreeable companions. A very 
thickset) fanner-looking old gentleman, in a linen roundabout, and 
remarkable for short legs and long body, mounted on a snow-white 
charger, followed by a mounted dragoon, most perpendicular in his 
saddle, and covered with trappings, passes by. If you inquire who 
that is, you will be laughed at, for he is the major general com- 
mander-in-chief of the " Army of Occupation," and he is going over 
u to consult with several officers," about something he made up his 
mind should be done " nolens volens," a month ago. 



PRIVATE RESIDENCE IN MATAMOROS. 



139 



CHAPTER XVII. 

The bridge — Change in the country — Private residence of a wealthy citizen — 
Newspaper in Mexico — Interior of the city — Plaza — Cathedral — Its 
front — Chapel — Its worshippers — Halls of justice — Head quarters of our 
troops — Mexican prison — A prisoner free — Court room — Military stores — 
The rich widow — Her mules. 

Turning up the road leading directly into the city, you pass over 
a very handsomely-constructed bridge, laid in water-proof cement ; 
it was a public work in the better days of the Mexican republic. 
This bridge was more needed formerly than now. Until a few years 
since, there annually formed by the rains a lake between the river and 
the city ; it gave a semi-aquatic appearance to Matamoros, and was the 
common resort of the inhabitants who wished to enjoy a bath. Either 
the heads of the lake broke away, or the overflowings of the Rio 
Grande changed the formation of the land, for it dried up, and left in 
the place of a transparent sheet of water, a little stream, bounded on 
either side by dank weeds, over which the bridge gracefully arches, 
looking liberal from the apparent extra breadth of the span. Past the 
bridge, on either side of the road, rise tall trees, for the country, 
giving to it a picturesque and rural appearance. On your right is the 




Front View of a Private Residence in Matamoros. 



140 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



large brick house of a wealthy citizen, who was a colonel of militia 
on the 8th and 9th. You are struck with its desolate front ; it has 
not a window or door that is made for comfort or ornament, and those 
that present themselves are protected by thick heavy batten doors and 
shutters. Up high, on one corner of the front, is something that looks 
much like a large cage. That cage is the balcony, whereon at eve, 
steal forth the females of the family, to enjoy the evening air. They 
are out of the reach of stolen kisses, or letters of love, and Mexican 
jealousy is somewhat lulled by this arrangement. The lower part of 
the house presents bare walls, that protect male and female from the 
assaults of sudden revolution, of lawless robbers, of plundering sol- 
diery, and thefts of hungry officials ; that house speaks a volume of 
melancholy detail, of the social and political condition of the country. 




Side view of the same Residence. 



" Hare is de Republica de Rio Grande y amiga de los pueblo, neu 
papier, one beet." A newspaper boy, for the first time, in the Repub- 
lic of Mexico. He is looked upon by the inhabitants in favor of the 
old dynasty, as Indians look upon the appearance of bees — it shows 
that the white man is coming. He is an old boy, though young in news- 
papers, being full sixty years of age, but he does bravely. " Hare is 
de Republica." " Hold on there," cries a volunteer, " let us have a 




■'."r:i-:p,T\ &lHfi 



WINDOW OF A PRIVATE HOUSE. 



Family looking out at the American Troops marching by. 



UNFINISHED CATHEDRAL. 141 

number." All sad reflections upon the condition of Mexico, suggested 
by the prison-like appearance of the Mexican colonel's house pass 
away, for intelligence has found wings, and those even in Mexico who 
run, can in future read ; a new order of things has commenced, and 
sudden and singular improvements for the better are bound to follow 
in Matamoros. 

Cleverly in Matamoros, the first impression you receive is the deso- 
late one created by the prison look of all the houses. They have a 
semi-moorish appearance, and you cannot divest yourself of the idea 
that a city thus built, must be inhabited by people of jealous disposi- 
tions, subject to civil war, and of unsocial habits. As you progress 
along, you see, peeping through grated windows, pairs of dark eyes 
that flash strangely with fear and curiosity ; little children retreat be- 
fore you with that gait peculiar to the young of timid animals, that 
flee from instinct, before they do it from reason. The double door, 
opened at an angle to admit the air, gives glimpses of deep brunettes, 
throwing remarkably luxuriant and dark tresses over their heads, pre- 
vious to arrano-incr them for the evening's listlessness. Men sit sul- 
lenly about in their fantastic dresses, half of them looking as if they 
had stolen out of a stock company of a theatre, while engaged in 
playing a " brigand piece." There is a flaunting, stiletto-you-in-the- 
dark look, about the whole of them. As you wander on, you find 
the city remarkably well laid out, and although giving evidences of 
having seen better days, still it is far from being destitute of attractive 
buildings. Once fairly in the plaza Hidalgo, the principal square of 
the city, you can rest yourself under the shade of some stunted china 
trees, and then commence examining at your leisure. 

You will at once be attracted by the unfinished cathedral, that is 
so managed, that the houses on its wings appear to be a part of the 
cathedral itself, giving to the mass a very imposing appearance, bound- 
ing one entire side of the plaza. It was some years since that the 
architect commenced the building with most excellent intentions, and 
but for an evident want of funds, would have made a splendid build- 
ing. Two fine, but unfinished, towers command the ends of the ca- 
thedral, upon one of which is laid a rude piece of timber, from which 
are suspended two bells. The Gothic door in the centre would have 
exposed the interior with great effect, but, alas, some misfortune over- 



142 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

whelmed its progress, and left the bare walls, to provoke the imagina- 
tion to contemplating the reasons why a work so well begun, was not 
completed. 

In front, seated in the angles formed by the pillars, or upon their 
bases, fifty or more poor miserable creatures, who seem, in their po- 
verty, to have nothing in abundance but sunshine, and that they are 
determined to enjoy. Many are disgustingly disfigured by slow can- 
kerous diseases, that appear to render their victims hideous, and yet 
will not kill. Some are slightly wounded soldiers who have crawled 
out of the hospitals for fresh air. Few well-dressed persons linger in 
their vicinity, but pass decorously on and disappear in a narrow alley- 
way on the right of the cathedral, where we will enter. Having done 
so, you soon come to a small room, no doubt intended originally for 
the sacristy, but now used as a chapel. The walls are plain ; there 
is no wealth about the altar to tempt sacrilegious hands. The adorn- 
ments, on the contrary, are of little value, and of a kind in no way har- 
monious with the objects for which they are appropriated. The priest 
is at the altar in the act of celebrating mass, the worshipping con- 
gregation is impressive, and tempts the heart to join in the solemn 
service. 

Before you are kneeling some twenty Mexican women, many of 
them quite handsome, all calculated to excite curiosity. They kneel 
gracefully, and, accidentally as possible, expose a fine foot, tastefully 
set off with a small slipper. There are but two Mexican men in the 
house, shame upon the sex, but there are men there beside, noble and 
true-hearted men, that form a curious sight, all the circumstances con- 
sidered. Some twenty United States troops, in their uniforms, are on 
their knees at prayer, among the most devotional in the house. Jt w r as 
a sight to see those thus engaged, who but a few days before were sur- 
rounded by the terrors of the battle field, busy, prominently busy, in 
the work of death. Such is one of the cathedrals of Matamoros, and 
the principal building in the city. 

Directly opposite the cathedral is a row of buildings two stories 
high, variously occupied. In the centre are the halls of the city jus- 
tices ; in the rear of which is the calabozo, and also a kind of maga- 
zine for military stores. A rich widow owns the lower third of the 
row, living in great state, within her own premises ; an object of ex- 



HALL OF JUSTICE. 



143 




eimuui/diMON 



Halls of Justice and Head Qu 



ceeding interest to the enterprising bachelor u volunteers" who think 
of settling in the country. 

The calabozo, or city prison of Matamoros, under the charge of the 
civil authorities, is one of the most wretched places that can be con- 
ceived of, in which to incarcerate human beings. You enter from the 
street, passing between two Mexican sentinels, and come to a thick 
batten door, with a small grate in it. A poor wretch, nearly naked, 
and wan from misery and watching, opens the door, and you enter a 
small court paved with brick, which are polished smooth by the 
continued stepping of naked feet ; on one side are small cells, open- 
ing into the court, and having no provision made, when shut, for 
light or air. The doors were all open now ; sickness or want of food 
had weakened the few prisoners that were held in bondage, until it was 
not dangerous to let them enjoy the light of heaven that struggled into 
their living graves. Imagination cannot conceive the suffering that is 



144 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

endured by humanity, sweltering under a tropical sun, and surrounded 
by the soul-sickening influences of this prison house. What tales of 
misery it could unfold, if the walls could speak ; how many brave- 
hearted Americans have lingered out a miserable existence in these 
cells for some conventional crhne, devised to rob them of their wealth, 
or to avenge some fancied wrong. 

There was a hang-dog look about the sunken eyes of the few pri- 
soners, and, after knowing the Mexican character, one will be at a loss 
to guess what crime they could commit, to make them odious enough 
among their own people, to be thus incarcerated. 

Beneath a rude shed, one of the prisoners was busy in making tor- 
tillas. There was an expertness about his operations that would 
always excite the curiosity of the uninitiated. He had a flat stone be- 
fore him, elevated to a slight angle ; in his hands was a sort of " rolling 
pin." He placed the just ripened corn on the upper side of the pin, 
then rubbing it briskly up and down the stone, managed most adroitly 
to crush out the snowy farina, leaving the hull to gather upon the 
upper side of the pin. It was evidently the slight of years of practice, 
and constitutes the labor of one half of the population of Mexico, who 
thus actually do no more than the work of a few well-conducted 
steam or water mills. The floury pulp is simply patted into cakes, 
and laid upon the ashes to bake, and the tortilla is complete. 

In the extremest of the cells was a wheel-barrow ; upon it was a 
mass of something enveloped in a soldier's overcoat. Curiosity 
prompted the lifting of one corner of this veil : a Mexican soldier lay 
there asleep^ contracted into a space to suit the short bed of the wheel- 
barrow. A soldier, fortunate in his sleep, for his soul had left its 
prison-house of clay, and the terrible one that still held his body in 
durance vile. 

Emerging from a Mexican prison into the fresh air, the sky looks 
brighter to the eyes, and the soul seems to have escaped from bondage. 
You pass an American sentinel in a large door-way adjoining the 
prison, and come to a wide pair of stairs. Ascending, you find your- 
self in the seat of justice of the city of Matamoros, and perhaps for the 
department in which it is situated. The room is fitted up in a sort of 
barbaric splendor, a velvet canopy with gold fringe is suspended over 
the judge's seat, contrasting unpleasantly against a badly finished wall. 



MILITARY STORES. 145 

A velvet cushion, also fringed with gold, forms the couch for a very old 
bible in the Latin tongue. All else was commonplace. The windows 
of the court room extended to the floor, and opened upon a gallery, 
from which you looked down into the public square. — The floor of the 
court room was covered with envelopes of official documents, franked 
from the different capitals of the departments, and from the city of 
Mexico, directed to the principal officers who commanded the Mexi- 
can forces against Gen. Taylor, leaving the supposition that the room 
was displaced of justice, and occupied by Gen. Arista as his head 
quarters. 

Descending from the court room, you pass back, and come to a 
court yard, from the buildings on either side of which American troops 
were busily engaged in removing military stores. This depot had just 
been discovered, and was evidently one of the principal in the city. 
On the right were standing hundreds of condemned English tower 
muskets : on the floor, knee deep, and in strange confusion, were 
scopets, bayonets, and heaps of copper grape and shell. The room 
on the left contained an immense quantity of clothing fantastically cut 
and trimmed, which caused one of our troops to remark, w it must 
have been intended for showmen's monkeys." With the clothing 
were various crude war implements, belts, cartridge boxes, cases of 
canister shot, and cannon ball, which had been originally packed by 
mule loads, in green ox hide, the hide, when drying, having drawn 
them together as tightly as if they were a solid mass of iron. All 
this military rubbish our troops were removing ; it cost hundreds of 
thousands of dollars to the Mexicans. Save the grape and ball, the 
whole was to us of little value. In breaking up the canisters, several 
were found filled up with small pieces of bar iron, old keys, and glass ; 
the great majority, however, were of copper grape. 

In a little recess, evidently intended for it, reposed quietly a small 
mountain howitzer, with carriage and equipments complete. It was 
a small piece of cannon, truly, and compares with our eighteen-pound- 
ers, as a humming bird does with an eagle. " The officer of the day, 1 ' 
looking at, said it was an effective weapon in " the narrow mountain 
passes," where heavier artillery could not be taken. 

Leaving these " stern realities of war," you can, by going down the 
plaza a house or two, enter through a sort of half public way into 

10 



146 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the court of the rich widow's residence. It is a splendid place, of 
immense size, bounded on two sides by large and handsomely-orna- 
mented galleries, the whole interior more beautiful, as with all Spanish 
houses, than the dull front would promise. The garden abounded with 
fig and pomegranate trees, and a variety of tropical shrubs. The widow, 
however, was secluded within the thick walls and the heavy curtains 
of her own apartments, giving neither stranger or friend, as far as we 
could learn, a view of her weeds and dark eye lashes. An American, 
however, will be indebted to that rich widow for a surprise, if he will 
step under an angle of the house, and look well at her " carriage horses." 

It is wonderful, that among the most remarkable things in Mata- 
moros to unsophisticated American eyes, should be a pair of mules, 
strange and peculiar as all else is. The widow's carriage mules — 
who could look at them, and ever forget the sight ? A mule, forsooth ! 
who could dwell for a moment on its beauties, big headed, long eared, 
mongrel, monster beast ? The widow 5 s mules, however, were beautiful, 
and yet they looked exactly like mules. A fact that can be explained 
in the extraordinary resemblance that is often noticed between a lovely 
girl of sixteen, radiant in charms, who is a precise counterpart, in 
every feature, to her ugly, ill-natured, freckled, furrowed papa. 

The widow's mules were sublemented certainly — their heads were 
small, and possessed of delicate nostrils, that dilated with breathing, 
as if they were formed of brocade satin. Their ears were pointed, 
and blood-like, as any descendant of Godolphin Arabian, with fine 
legs, ending in hoofs so delicate, that one felt disposed to take them 
in the hand, and toy with them. The widow's mules would convince 
the skeptical, that the ass in the east may be, without absurdity, 
" royal ;" how, and where, did the rich widow of Matamoros get 
these mules ? 

Coming again into the plaza, you can rest yourself upon a pile of 
boxes, just taken out of the Mexican armory. A long train of w T agons 
marked U. S. on their covers, are coming along to take them away; 
the few Mexicans about, look on surlily, but the boxes are taken off 
to Fort Brown as cavalierly as if they Mere from one of our own 
depots. In the Calle Iturbide, just round the corner, is a refectory 
worthy of notice, and there one can rest comfortably after the fatigues 
of a morning's-" looking" excitement. 



CHAPEL DE LA CAPILLA. 



147 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

Chapel de la Capilla — Its use by Gen. Arista — Its ornaments — Its worship- 
pers — Incident — The grated house — Suburbs of the town — The ruined bar- 
racks — The red tower — Scene suggested — Mexican hospitals — Treatment 
of the sick — Their appearance — The artillery — Musket wound — Market 
square — Its commodities — Queer dogs — Mexican exquisite. 

In the " upper square" is a curiously-constructed building, known 
as the Chapel de la Capilla, giving its name to the square itself, that 
will attract attention by the crude taste displayed in ornamenting its 
front. It appears to have been painted some light dingy color, and 
then streaked with a large brush along its front with red paint. The 
instant it was convenient for the Mexican commanders to use this 
chapel for military purposes, they turned out the sacred furniture of 




Chapel de la Capilla- 



148 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the altar, and all the ornaments, throwing them in confused heaps, 
and in their place piled up the ammunition of the army. After the 
battles, it was used for a few days as a hospital for the wounded, and 
then restored to its legitimate uses. 

The Chapel de la Capilla is better furnished than the one in the 
cathedral : but the great poverty about every thing, shows that the 
people of Matamoros are any thing than enthusiastic or liberal in re- 
ligious matters. Over the altar, there were to be seen two wax figures, 
about three feet in height, representing " the Father" and " the Vir- 
gin." They were dressed precisely as were the people in the streets, 
and, save a more elevated expression about the face, given by the 
mysterious light that played on them from above, and the deathly look 
of the wax of which they were composed, they might have been mis- 
taken for the common Mexican effigies, in the making of which these 
people are singularly expert. 

On the threshold of the chapel, was kneeling in solemn prayer, a 
Mexican girl, robed in pure white ; her regular, dark features, mingled 
in them the Castilian and aboriginal blood most witchingly, giving to 
them a warm expression, truly like the mellow, golden flesh tints seen 
in an old picture. Large tears were threaded on her dark eye lashes, 
and as she raised her eyes in prayer, one involuntarily thought of the 
females that look out from the creations of Corregio. When the 
priest concluded his prayer, offered up for the sick and afflicted, she 
turned her head for a moment, when a familiar recognition followed ; 
a tinge of interest in worldly things shaded the spiritual face. The 
vanity was flattered by the remembrance ; and the recognition called 
to mind by a kindly service rendered to a wounded officer in one of 
the hospitals, who was attended by a delicate girl, clad at the time in 
the common dress of the country, and who was remarkably attentive 
to his wants. This daughter was now praying for the recovery of a 
parent, over whom she daily and nightly watched, regardless of all 
the terrible and humiliating scenes around her. 

Leaving the chapel, and going towards the river, you will be struck 
with the appearance of a private residence, having extra large bars 
across the window ; the damaged condition of the front, being done 
by the shot during the bombardment. 



SUBURBS OF MATAMOROS. 




Private Dwelling, Matamoros. 

The fears of the inmates, joined with the clumsiness of the iron- 
worker, have made this dwelling look like a perfect calabozo, bnt a 
peep through the open gate gives you a glimpse of an enchanting 
court, in which were seen gay-plumaged birds in cages, and inviting 
arbors formed by the rich tropical foliage. 

Farther still towards the river, are the lower suburbs of the town ; 
here the land is considerably broken, and on the rising ground are 
the ruins of what apparently were several fine houses. A little off 
the road stand the walls of an unfinished powder magazine. The 
suspension of this public work was probably owing to a want of go- 
vernment funds for its completion. Keeping to the right, you pass 
through a street lined on either side with half rural-looking habita- 
tions, some of which are quite pretty, when suddenly the road opens 
into a large parade ground, one side of which is bounded by spacious, 
and, originally, very handsome barracks. 

The front is plain, and the pavement being good, and furnished at 
either end with handsome brick guard houses, the whole has a very 
military appearance. A few years since a hurricane passed over Ma- 
tamoros, and on its way unroofed this building ; a portion of the 



150 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

roof still lies across the front. Curiosity prompts the passer-by to 
enter, through the once strongly fortified doorway. The interior has 
a perfectly Spanish appearance ; the walls are terribly thick, and all 
the rooms are dungeon-like. This building seemed to have been 
recently occupied by troops. Passing from the court, you ascend by 
wide but steep steps to the upper walls ; and while engaged in fol- 
lowing the range of the loop holes, and observing how perfectly a 
few soldiers behind the strong breastwork could command the inside 
of the whole barracks, it suddenly flashes on the mind, that the 
strongly-built guard house that surmounts this wall, is the red tower 
that, while the Mexicans still held the city, so intensely interested our 
troops. 




arracks, Suburbs of Matamoros 



During the bombardment of Fort Brown, and when Matamoros was 
thronged with troops, almost every evening, solemn music was heard, 
Avhich seemed to proceed from the plaza, and move towards this red 
tower. At sunset volleys of musketry were fired, followed by a cloud 
of white smoke circling round this tower. This signified either a 
funeral, or an execution. 

One can stand at the base of this red tower, and overlook the 



HOSPITALS IN MATAMOROS. 151 

various courts of the barracks. Directly in front is the main one — the 
parade ground. Imagination, prompted by the well-known summary 
executions of the military "despots of Mexico, can readily call up 
some poor wretch brought out for sacrifice ; see him pinioned and 
kneeling in bold relief against the barrack wall, while overhead, and 
opposite, in all the panoply of abused authority, stands the cruel-hearted 
military tyrant, coolly giving directions for the execution. An irregular 
discharge of fire arms follows, the ghastly mutilated victim starts 
convulsively forward : his comrades, their hearts brutalised by the 
constant sight of blood, rush, with eager haste, to drive their knives 
into his heart; so passes a military execution in Mexico. 

When Gen. Taylor took Matamoros, it was represented to him by 
public scandal, that there were fifty or sixty persons in it, who were 
wounded in the battles. The number was considered remarkably 
small, and created some surprise. After the public stores were taken 
possession of, there was found among them a quantity of tobacco, a 
portion of the best was divided out among our troops, and the re- 
mainder Gen. Taylor ordered to be sold at auction, the proceeds to 
be applied to the relief of the wounded Mexican soldiers. This led 
to some examination, when to the surprise of all, the " commission" 
appointed to inquire into the number, reported nearly four hundred 
sick and wounded. This startling fact justified the American estimate 
of the deadly effect of our arms, which was so flatly contradicted, by 
the number of wounded first reported as being in the city by the 
Mexicans. 

A visitor in Matamoros would find the hospitals places of melan- 
choly interest, and sources of constant surprise. They developed 
traits of the Mexican character, no where else exhibited. The veil is 
torn away in these receptables of suffering humanity, and it was a 
matter of serious speculation, whether the horrors of war were not 
eclipsed by the horrors of the social condition of the poor wretches, 
whose mutilated bodies were strewn around. Not a street in Mata- 
moros is destitute of its hospital, and as you move about, a curtain 
before the door of some private house would blow aside, and reveal 
the cot, with the attenuated form stretched under a sheet, surrounded 
by silent nurses, that seemed to be dark figures, wrought into the solid 
walls against which they were relieved. 



152 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

There were plenty of excellent houses for the Mexicans to place 
their wounded into, but their officials paid no attention to comfort, even 
where it was as easily obtained as the miserable places in which the 
wounded were often thrown, as useless remains of a defeated battle 
field. Hence the meson, a dirty, low building, the public inn of the 
place, where horses and men find, with equal accommodation, a lodg- 
ing for the night, was chosen, among other indifferent places, as an 
hospital. In the city, better buildings were appropriated to such uses, 
but in all were the same indifferent attentions, or rather "neglects" 
of the invalids. 

The sick generally lay upon the ground; some few enjoyed the 
luxury of a raw hide to repose upon, and a block of wood to support 
their heads ; a sheet of white cotton was wrapped closely about their 
attenuated frames, exaggerating the horrors they partially concealed. 
Some passed their time in heavy sleep, with half-opened eyes, that 
leered upon the spectator more horribly than did those of the un- 
buried dead at Palo Alto. Some never slept, but ever looked with eyes 
of living coals of fire, that betrayed the fever that was consuming 
them ; some swayed to and fro, as if impatient of the restraints of 
sickness, and were longing for their far mountain homes, from which 
they had been torn to fight battles in which they had no interest ; 
some sat doggedly staring into the dust, with scarce sense enough to 
feel, or mind sufficient to speculate upon their condition. 

Were these indeed the brave soldiers of the 8th and 9th, who had 
about them their ghastly titles that showed they had been in the 
thickest of the fight ? Were these men Mexicans ? Were such va- 
rieties of colors all equal in social condition ? Even so. The Castilian 
with auburn hair, the swarthy Indian with straight, the dark negro 
with kinked, with all their intermediate mixtures, lay side by side, all 
Mexicans, all of the same sympathies, feelings, language. All moved 
in their winding sheets, evidently equal in mind and body. To the 
American, who makes distinction in colors, this strange mixture of 
races in one people, causes the greatest surprise. 

Their countenances were hideous from natural physiognomy ; every 
style of expression was represented : the African, with low forehead 
and protruding lips ; the besotted Indian, his straight hair hanging over 
his regular features, giving it additional ferocity ; the Malay-looking 



MARKET IN MATAMOROS. 153 

mongrel, with tawny skin, slight moustache, and cold-blooded, trea- 
cherous eyes ; the low, cunning, yet intelligent, brutish white man. 
All these various faces peered out from among loose folds of white 
cloth, that fall about them, giving them the appearance of Arabs, or 
some eastern crew of a pirate ship. And yet these were all Mexicans, 
and might have been, without offence to that people, blood relations, 
members of the same family. 

Go where you would, and there were evidences of the artillery. 
Ringgold had written the strength of " his arm " with terrible distinct- 
iveness. Arms and legs gone, shattered bodies, ghastly wounds, all 
too hideous for the musket, were eveiy where to be seen. It was 
surprising that men could live thus torn to pieces. And yet the 
greatest suffering, apparently, was from a musket ball. Had it been 
grape, or of heavier material, it would have done its work effectually, 
and left its victim painless in death. As it was, it had gone through 
the breast, tearing the fine machinery of the lungs to pieces, and yet 
left vitality enough to have them move on in their ruins, poison- 
ing the whole frame with impure blood, and leaving the patient to 
suffer beyond the imagination to conceive. Poor soldier, his breath 
rattled and tore away at his vitals ; his sufferings were indeed a dark 
spot on the bloody page of war. 

Amidst all their misery and desolation, amidst these places so hum- 
bling to pride, so sacrificing to vanity, woman was there, devoted to 
a husband or a brother ; she sat in the dust, fanned away the torturing 
insects that lived on blood, and revelled in wounds, sanctifying the 
most menial offices by her spirit and influence, and shedding, by her 
smiles, by her silent attentions, by her teachings of hope in another 
world, the only bright rays that are seen to glimmer in a Mexican 
hospital. 

Besides the public squares already mentioned, one other, occupied 
by the market, is worthy of notice. The building is of commodious 
dimensions, and in the early morning presents, with the square sur- 
rounding it, a lively, picturesque appearance. Here are assembled 
every variety of mongrel population, from the apparent savage, to that 
appanage of Spanish enlightenment, a duenna in full dress. 

Like their class among all nations, the market people are loquacious 
in the extreme, and on all sides is a continual strain of musical, gut- 



154 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

teral sound, composed of the softest Castilian, and the aboriginal 
languages, curiously intermingled. 

Their commodities consist of a great variety of vegetables, but red 
pepper and garlic have the most prominent place. They have also 
different kinds of cakes, as well as the indispensable tortil. As to the 
meats, the substantial materials for the culinary art, nothing can be 
said in favor of them as represented in the Matamoros market. Mexi- 
can butchers would, by their bungling, make but indifferent beef of a 
stall-fed ox, and where a half wild steer, whose skin and flesh are of 
nearly equal weight, is the object of market enterprise, the quality of 
Mexican beef may be imagined. 

One of the most singular articles of commerce, occasionally met 
with, is a curious species of dog, of a steel-gray color, and being per- 
fectly destitute of hair. To see one of the largest quietly sleeping, 
one would suppose that a cast iron appendage to some aspiring modern 
portico had been removed from its place, and dropped in the thorough- 
fare. These dogs, so destitute of covering, look very well in iron or 
stone, but a living one, to all refined taste, seems disgusting in its 
poverty. 

The long avenue of the market, and the throng constantly moving 
about, afford a fine opportunity for display, and it is most amusingly 
taken advantage of by the dandies of the town. A Mexican exquisite 
is remarkable for his rings and his pride, and it is a most amusing 
spectacle, when one of them throws his poncha, " all tattered and 
torn," across his shoulders, and perambulates the market with an air 
that would have added new fame to Vandyke, had he given it to one 
of his Netherland portraits. — It is decidedly one of the most exquisite 
scenes in the world. 



MEXICAN IMPOSTS. 155 



CHAPTER XIX. 

Abandoned public stores in Matamoros — The copper shells — Mexican im- 
posts — Large gun-carriages — Saddles — Evidences of hasty retreat — Revo- 
lutions in Mexico — Their effects on the business of Matamoros — Its pros- 
pects under a settled government — Number of men engaged in the battles 
— Arista's statements — French consul's statement — Alcade Gomez — Pro- 
bable number of troops — Conduct of our soldiers — The moral effects of 
the battles. 

The amount of public stores found in Matamoros, by Col. Twiggs, 
was incredibly large. They must have cost the government of 
Mexico from five to six hundred thousand dollars, and had evidently 
been collected together, from the time that Mexico became indepen- 
dent of Spain, until the present. A large quantity, no doubt, was sent 
to Matamoros, during the prosecution of hostilities in Texas. The 
age of much of these military stores, was known by the old-fashioned 
manner in which it was packed up, and a part seemed to be the refuse 
of arsenals, as it was totally unfit for use. The muskets were con- 
demned English tower muskets, bought probably by the government, 
from private citizens in England : the same species of commerce has 
precedence in the manufacture of arms in our own country. 

The clothing found was of the most fantastic description, and of 
sizes too small for the average of our American troops : — the great 
object seemed to be, to have plenty of trimmings. 

The grape and canister shot was of copper, and also the shells; 
by some, it is supposed that this " house" was the refuse of the silver 
and gold ore of the mines. An immense amount of ammunition must 
have been carried away by Arista, as he seized every possible convey- 
ance that could be found in the city, and loaded it, to send with his 
army into the interior. 

Among the government stores were tobacco, segars, stamped paper, 
and playing-cards. It would seem that the Mexican government laid 
its heaviest imposts on the vices of the nation ; and this was wisely 
conceived, as the Mexicans spend a large portion of their time in card- 
playing and smoking. Two pieces of cannon were taken from a well. 



156 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

In one house were an immense quantity of shell, and two gun-carriages, 
made of the most splendid mahogany, and intended for at least thirty- 
two pounders. It is said that these carriages were brought over land, 
while the guns were shipped at Vera Cruz : the vessel containing them 
was wrecked at the mouth of the Rio Grande. Had these powerful 
guns arrived at their destination, and been brought to bear upon Fort 
Brown, it might have made a change in the fortunes of its defenders. 
These superb carriages are now within the walls of the fort, but are 
exposed to the action of the elements : they should be taken to Wash- 
ington, and there wrought into furniture, to adorn the capitol. 

Beneath the floor of a stable, where a portion of Mexican cavalry 
horses had been stationed, were found a large number of saddles, many 
of excellent quality, and some richly ornamented with silver. It is 
probable, that for years to come, discoveries will continually be made, 
of hidden depositories of military stores. 

It was curious to notice how suddenly, in many instances, the work 
of the soldiers had been abandoned. In the large room in which the 
gun-carriages were found, was a carpenter's bench — the workman had 
been busily making boxes for cannon shot, and left one nearly com- 
pleted ; the shaving in his plane was but half cut off from the board 
on which he was engaged. In the very act of sweeping his plane, 
the news had come of the defeat : the carpenter had dropped his in- 
strument and fled. Such were the evidences of consternation every 
where to be met with. 

The continued revolutions in Mexico have gradually undermined 
the prosperity of Matamoros. Its trade has each year decreased in 
importance. The taxes imposed by the central government paralyze 
commerce, and the privilege that each department has of levying a 
tariff, has constantly tended to confine the business of Matamoros to 
its own department of Tamaulipas. Hordes of office-holders have 
come from the city of Mexico to rob its inhabitants. Export and im- 
port duties were levied on every thing; and, as speculation prevailed 
among office-holders, confiscations for conventional breaking of laws 
were of every-day occurrence. Bribery of officials, of course, soon 
became reduced to a system : the smallest traders bribe the lowest 
officials — the judge, the governor — the governor, the minister — and 



REVOLUTIONARY SPIRIT. 157 

all seek to evade paying tribute to the supreme government. All these 
evils tend, directly, to impoverish the country. 

With the evils of bad government came recklessness of fortune. The 
inhabitants, not naturally enterprising, from the insecurity of property 
became to rely upon the spontaneous productions of the soil, rather 
than upon any business investment, for their support. Hides, tallow, 
fat, and wool, which are produced in such abundance upon the broad 
savannas of Mexico, proved to be sufficient for the supply of every 
present want ; and this has originated with the people a preference for 
that kind of wealth not liable to be easily stolen, or taken from them 
by the rapacity of military leaders. Notwithstanding the accumula- 
tion of evils by which Matamoros has suffered, such is the great 
production of its commercial wealth, that it still flourishes with con- 
siderable estate, and maintains a population of six or seven thousand 
souls. 

Let the northern part of Mexico be once possessed of good laws 
and an intelligent population, that would call forth the undeveloped 
resources of the country, and Matamoros would soon grow into a city 
of great commercial importance. It is not possible for the present in- 
habitants to accomplish anything. Besides being indolent, they pos- 
sess a revolutionary spirit that renders the blessings of a settled go- 
vernment for them impossible. 

The causes of this revolutionary spirit are numerous. The people 
are naturally fond of games of chance, and they carry this passion into 
every detail of life, and are fascinated by the risk of losing the tor- 
tilla of the morning's meal, as well as by the chances of a change in 
government. 

No matter how prosperously a government may be organised, or 
however well calculated to benefit the people, those out of office and 
power have but to display to the mass the prospect of gaining both 
by a revolution, and it is at once plunged into with the greatest en- 
thusiasm. This will ever continue to be the state of Mexico, until 
people of a higher order are distributed through its present population, 
who will give a new tone to society, infuse a new spirit into its peo- 
ple, and impress a new character upon its social and political organi- 
zation. 



158 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE, 

The exact number of men engaged on the Mexican side in the bat- 
tles of the 8th and 9 th, will always be a matter of some speculation. 
Gen. Arista garbles his statements throughout, and attempts to palliate 
defeat by giving false accounts of his own strength. Gen. Taylor had, 
counting all his force, twenty-three hundred men. He, himself, esti- 
mates the strength of the enemy to have been six thousand ; while 
Gen. Arista says, the force under his command amounted to but three 
thousand men. 

The French consul resident at Matamoros during the concentration 
of Mexican troops at that place, and who is evidently not prepossessed 
in favour of the Americans, sets down the number of their forces en- 
gaged in the battles as follows : 



No 


of Men. 


No. 


of Men. 


Infantry, 1st, Col. Mendoza, 


180 


Brought forward, 


2860 


" 10th, Col. Gareid, 


250 


Artillery of all kinds, twelve 




Sapadores. Col. Reyes, 


330 


pieces, 


400 


Ligero 2d, Col. Currasco, 


350 


Cavalry, 3d, 


300 


" 6th, Col. Cazanova, 


200 


7th, Col. Montero, 


300 


" 4th, Col. Araga, 


600 


Sth, Coh Torrejon, 


600 


Mexico, 


300 


Irregular, Col. Canales, 


600 


Morilia, 


250 


" Col. Lavariego, 


130 


Tampico Mateos, 


400 








5190 

2860 

Alcalde Gomez, a civil magistrate of the country west of the Rio 
Grande, who lives about seven miles below Fort Brown, states that 
Arista crossed the main body of troops at his ferry, and impressed 
him with all the boats between his ferry and Barita into the service. 
He also states, that two days were occupied by the troops in crossing, 
with all the flats and boats that could be gathered together, and that 
upwards of five thousand went over in this time. Alcalde Gomez 
also says, that it was Arista's intention to give Gen. Taylor battle as 
he went down to Point Isabel ; but the great delay in getting over his 
men, allowed Gen. Taylor to pass the place singled out for the con- 
templated attack upon our army. 

Gen. Torrejon had, by the acknowledgment of official Mexican 
documents, over fifteen hundred regular cavalry under his command ; 
and Canales, who commanded the rancheros, had probably an equal 
force. These, with the five thousand infantry certified to by Alcalde 



EFFECT OF THE BATTLES. 159 

Gomez, make eight thousand men, which is probably near the num- 
ber engaged in the battles of the 8 th and 9 th. 

Among Gen. Arista's private papers, was found what appeared to be 
an official return of the army on the morning of the 9th, which set 
down the whole force at six thousand eight hundred. As this return 
only included the " regulars," there is yet to be added Canales' ran- 
cheros, and the eight thousand men are made up. 

The conduct of our soldiers during the two battles, cannot be too 
much admired. Every one was anxious to be the first engaged in the 
contest ; the ambition was to be in the thickest of the fight. There 
never was fought a battle, on ground that offered so many hiding 
places, as that of Resaca de la Palma; every clump of chaparral 
afforded perfect protection from observation and discovery, yet not an 
instance is known of its being taken advantage of, and the returns of 
both battles have no " missing" in the list. The proportion of officers, 
in the total of the killed, has no precedence on record, and shows 
how nobly they must have led on their men. 

It is a curious fact, that the commanding officer of the American 
army was a " colonel," opposed to whom were five generals, and one 
major general. 

The effect of the battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma upon 
the civilised world, has been great indeed. Our country having but a 
small standing army, and a generation having passed away since we 
have had an opportunity to illustrate our prowess in arms, our military 
power had been somewhat lost sight of by European nations. It is 
no doubt true that these two battles, comparatively unimportant in 
loss of treasure and life, have accomplished a moral effect, that may 
check interference in American affairs by European powers, that 
would, if actually commenced, result in a general war among the 
civilised nations of the earth. 

The spirit with which our troops fought, exhibited a most perfect 
concentration of courage, tempered by constant acts of generosity. 
So long as the combat lasted, they furiously contended for the mastery, 
but the battle ended, humanity immediately resumed her sway. The 
generous courage of the subordinates, only found a rival in the gallant 
bearing of the officers who led them on to victory. 



160 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER XX. 

ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 

[In the following anecdotes and incidents, none are given, except such as 
were related by actors or participators in the scenes, or came under the 
author's personal observation.] 

THE GENERALS IN CAMP. 

The contrast of the two commanding generals, Taylor and Arista, 
in the pomp and circumstances of war, was characteristic of the dif- 
ferent institutions under which they lived. There was a semi-barbaric 
splendor associated with Arista's, according with the despotism of the 
Mexican government. A simplicity about that of Taylor's, equally 
significant of pure republican institutions. 

The marquee of the commanding general of the Mexican forces 
was bell-shaped, and of great size.* The material of which it was 
composed, was ornamented by parti-colored stripes, giving it a holy- 
day appearance. Around it were stationed officers, whose rich dresses 
glistened in the sun, and who were ever ready to pay the most abject 
respect to their chief. Led horses, richly caparisoned, slowly paced 
in sight. Protecting its rear, like continued labyrinthian walls, was 
arranged the equipage of the camp. Pack saddles for five hundred 
mules were tastefully placed for display, and their loads near by, 
heaped up in prodigal confusion. To the poor Mexican soldier, bi- 
vouaced in the open air, this wealth seemed a vision of fairy land, 
and its conventional possessor, rich, beyond their imagination, and 
powerful, beyond comparison. 

Bands of rude music almost constantly rent the air with their noisy 
labor. The furniture of the marquee was rich ; the costly figured 
chests of the camp were the ornamental furniture ; upon their tops 

* We had the privilege and opportunity of examining most of Gen. Arista's 
camp equipage at Fort Brown. We are indebted to the "Commissioners" 
appointed to examine it, for some particulars relative to the plate, &c. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 161 

reposed in ostentation, the heavy silver service of the table, or the 
elegantly finished " maps of the campaign." Amid this array sat the 
commanding 1 general, surrounded by his numerous staff — his clothes 
of gay colors, and laced to vulgar profusion. Visits of ceremony, or 
of business, were conducted with pomp and needless delays ; long 
lines of officials stared and leered, and were impudent, or cringing, as 
suited their purposes best. Music rolled, sabres and muskets rattled, 
and the buzz of inflated greatness, and hollow pretence, was trium- 
phant. 

About a mile above the city of Matamoros, a little distance from 
the banks of the Rio Grande, are to be seen (June 1st,) some stunted 
and ill-shaped trees, which bend their gnarled and almost leafless 
limbs over a group of three or four small tents, only different from 
those of the common soldier in their rear, in this, that they are hete- 
rogenously disposed of for shade, instead of being in a line, regard- 
less of all else than military precision. The plain about is dotted 
over with thousands of tents, before many of which are artillery, 
and groups of men and soldiers ; and over some wave in triumphant 
folds our national flag, giving promise of more importance and pomp, 
than the little knot to which we have particularly alluded. We 
wended our way on towards the dwarfish trees, that were distinguish- 
ed by being a few feet higher than the surrounding brush, and the 
little group of tents that rested beneath them, for they were pointed 
out as marking the head quarters of the commanding general of a 
triumphant American army. 

Not the slightest token was visible, to mark one tent in the group 
from another ; there were no sentinels, nor any military parade present; 
a chubby sunburnt child, " belonging to the camp," was playing near 
by in the grass, temporarily arrested in its wanderings by some insect 
of unusual size, that was delving in the dust. We presented our- 
selves at the opening of one of the tents, before which was standing 
a dragoon's horse, much used by hard service. Upon a camp stool 

at our left sat Gen. , in busy conversation with a hearty-looking 

old gentleman, who was dressed in Attakapas pantaloons, and a linen 
roundabout, and was remarkable for a bright flashing eye, a high fore- 
head, a farmer look, and a " rough and ready" appearance. It is hardly 
necessary for us to say, that this personage was Gen. Taylor, the 

11 



162 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

commanding hero of two of the most remarkable battles on record, 
and the man who, by his firmness and decision of character, has shed 
lustre upon the American arms. 

There was no pomp about his tent ; a couple of rough blue chests 
served for his table, on which were strewn in masterly confusion, a 
variety of official-looking documents ; a quiet-looking citizen-dressed 
personage made his appearance, upon hearing the significant call of 
" Ben," bearing on a tin salver a couple of black bottles and shining 
tumblers, arranged around an earthen pitcher of Rio Grande water. 
These refreshments were deposited upon a stool, and " we helped 
ourselves," by invitation. We bore to the general a complimentary 
gift from some of his fellow-citizens of New Orleans, which he de- 
clined receiving for the present, giving at the same time a short, but 
" hard sense" lecture, on the impropriety of naming children and 
places after men before they were dead, or of his receiving a present 
for his services, " before the campaign, so far as he was concerned, 
was finished." 

With the highest possible admiration of the republican simplicity 
of the manners and character of Gen. Taylor, we bade him good day, 
with a higher appreciation of our native land, for possessing such a 
man as a citizen, and of its institutions, for moulding such a character. 

HARD TO WHIP. 

Early in the action of the 8th, a private of the Eighth regiment was 
severely wounded by a grape-shot on the head. He was ordered by 
the surgeon to the rear, any excitement being liable to cause sudden 
death. The soldier stole out of the hospital, picked up a musket, and 
started off to re-enter the engagement. He was arrested, and sent back 
to the hospital, where he became so enraged at being thus deprived of 
his " sacred rights," that it became necessary to tie him hand and foot. 

A CHIVALROUS SOLDIER. 

In the battle of the 9th, a private belonging to the Eighth regiment. 
in the charge on the enemy's batteries, threw himself in front of Col. 
Belknap, and received three balls in his person, aimed at the colonel. 
His gallantry will be duly rewarded by Col. Belknap, to whose kind 
attentions he is indebted for his recovery from his severe wounds. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 163 

CASE OF ARMY CRUELTY. 

On our arrival in the American camp, on the east side of the Rio 
del Norte, the first object that particularly struck our attention, was a 
soldier posted upon the highest part of " Fort Brown," who was walk- 
ing to and fro with a perpendicularly anxious look. After having been 
more than a week in camp, that soldier was still on the same eminence, 
with the same polished musket, and same anxious look. Occasion- 
ally he rested upon the muzzle of his musket, with his crossed arms, 
but generally, he paced up and down his confined walk, as if in the 
last degree of despair, of ever being released from his painful situa- 
tion. We know it is the same man we first saw, from the fact that wc 
never saw any one take his place, and also because he wears precisely 
the same dress and accoutrements, and has the same perpendicular 
walk. No doubt he is put upon the walls of Fort Brown, in the 
glaring sun, without an umbrella, to walk day and night, for ever, for 
some petty offence. We rise every morning expecting to see him gone, 
but his strength seems wonderful, for he is still there. What a dread- 
ful fate is his ! — What has that soldier done, so criminal, that he should 
be condemned by heartless military officers, to walk for ever upon the 
walls of Fort Brown ? 

MEXICAN LIEUT. COL., A LA GEN. VEGA. 

Some two weeks after the taking of Matamoros, the officer of the 
guard for the day, was very quietly smoking a papereto under the 
shade of some China trees in the plaza, when he was surprised to see 
coming towards him, a Mexican officer in military undress. The 
American officer rose, and approached him, claiming him as a pri- 
soner. The lieutenant colonel of artillery, for such he appeared, 
nodded assent, and took a seat beside the officer of the day, looking 
as profound as possible, and as much as he could like a soldier, who 
by the fortunes of war had got into the hands of an enemy. A ser- 
geant was despatched to Gen. Taylor, to announce the capture, and 
give in the rank and dignity of the prize. Now it so happened that 
a deputation of Mexican citizens were at Gen. Taylor's tent on some 
indifferent business, and old " Rough and Ready" asked said deputa- 
tion, the character and standing of this captured " lieutenant colonel 



164 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

of artillery." The deputation said, that he managed the guns of the 
" Sand-bag fort," that he was a worthless sort of character, and had 
been about Matamoros, ever since its capture, in a disguise, getting 
drunk, and, what was of more importance, getting in debt without any 
prospect of paying. Gen. Taylor heard all this, and said nothing. As 
the evening sun was declining, an officer came to the general, to know 
what disposition should be made of the prisoner colonel, who had the 
live long day, been in " durance vile," in the plaza, much to the edi- 
fication of the loafers and lazzaroni of Matamoros. " Let him go on 
his parole," said Gen. Taylor. The information was conveyed straight- 
way to the lieutenant colonel. 

Now it so happened that the prisoner had that very day heard, that 
Gen. Vega was treated in the United States with great consideration ; 
that he was a lion of the largest mane, and the favorite of the ladies, 
and preferred by them, to honest men of their own country, and had, 
moreover, a letter of credit from Gen. Taylor, to pay his expenses in 
the United States ; and these bright pictures had caused the magnani- 
mous self-delivery as a prisoner of war. Instigated by these high and 
chivalrous motives, he replied a la Vega to the officer who told him 
he could go on his parole, that he could not accept it, for he would 
be obliged to fight, or be taken out and shot ; that his government 
would not pay any attention to a parole. This information was duly 
conveyed to Gen. Taylor. Whereupon old "Rough and Ready," 
in great wrath, said, that the Mexican lieutenant colonel of artillery 
would not do any harm loose without a parole, and ordered him to 
be released indefinitely. 

A PERFIDIOUS MEXICAN. 

A private, on the 9th, who had followed Lieut. Dobbins through 
the thickest of the fight, raised his musket at a Mexican, and would 
have blown him through if the poor fellow had not most piteously 
cried out amigo, amigo, at the same time dropping his weapon. The 
private did the same, and advanced towards the Mexican to take him 
prisoner. The Mexican then perfidiously raised his piece and in- 
stantly killed the generous American. This so enraged Lieut. Dob- 
bins, that he drew his Bowie knife, and at a bound reached the coward, 
literally splitting his head in twain. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 165 



A SUFFERER BY THE BOMBARDMENT. 

During the first day of the bombardment of Fort Brown, there was 
an attempt made by our soldiers in the fort to fire Matamoros with 
hot shot. The furnaces prepared to heat the shot were imperfect, and 
fuel was difficult to obtain, the consequence was, the shot were made 
very warm, but not sufficiently so to set any thing on fire. The good 
citizens of Matamoros, determined to make the most of the balls we 
sent into their city, had frequent scrambles for them, as they fell into 
their streets. When the hot shot were thrown, one fell into the centre 
of the plaza, and off started a crowd to obtain the prize ; one indi- 
vidual, more swift than his fellows, clasped the hot ball in his hands, 
burning the palms of them to a crisp. After that, the Mexicans were 
more cautious, and usually waited for the balls to cool. This burnt- 
handed gentleman was a conspicuous patient in one of the hospitals, 
declaring that " he was a severe sufferer by the bombardment." 

AMUSING SCENE IN MATAMOROS. 

The high price of cotton goods in Matamoros, owing to the Mexican 
tariff, is well known. Several enterprising " yankees," since Gen. 
Taylor has taken possession of the city, have " moved in," opened 
stores, and are selling goods on " cheap principles," about one-third 
of the usual Mexican prices, but double the usual American prices. It 
is an amusing scene to witness the crowd around these stores, com- 
posed of the mixed people of the city. Finely dressed women, ran- 
cheros, naked Indians, and negroes, all eager to purchase goods, and 
jabbering good, bad, and indifferent Spanish, with a rapidity truly 
appalling to a phlegmatic Anglo-American. 

In the mean time, the " old established merchants" are looking upon 
their neglected stocks with sorrow and astonishment ; although they 
have got the greater part of them by defrauding the revenue, they have 
cost more in bribes to the custom-house officers, and other Mexican 
functionaries than the yankees' charging prices. This species of war- 
fare is rapidly converting the people over to American notions, and 
they have only to fully learn that they can have cheap goods, and the 
enjoyment of life and liberty, to abandon their government as rapidly 
as they have their high-priced stores. 



166 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

MUTILATING T.HE DEAD. 

These Mexicans went into battle with a horde of unpaid soldiery 
in their rear, who had the prospect of plunder held out to them as a 
reward. Arista's aid, Capt. Nagreet, told Col. Twiggs, that these un- 
paid soldiery plundered their own dead after the battle of the 8th. 

MEXICAN EXAGGERATION. 

The Mexicans exaggerated our power after the battles, as much as 
they were in the habit of exaggerating their own before them. One 
soldier reported in Matamoros, " that, previous to battle, the American 
soldiers were fed by their officers on powder and whiskey, to make 
them fight ;" another said that the Americans " were so strong, that 
one of our troops could pick up one of their cavalry, and pitch horse 
and rider, a hundred feet." 

UNEXPECTED ATTACK. 

One of Arista's aids, taken on the 9th, told Col. Twiggs, that the 
Americans charged on them when they did not expect it, and that his 
army had no idea that Gen. Taylor would so promptly follow up the 
battle of the 8 th. 

A GRATIFIED MEXICAN. 

Soon after Gen. Taylor took possession of Matamoros, a Mexican 
merchant came in from the interior, with twenty thousand dollars in 
gold and silver. According to the old state of things, the merchant, 
to export it to the United States, which he wished to do, would have 
been obliged to pay two heavy duties. Four per cent, for bringing 
it from the interior, and six per cent, for exporting it out of the country. 
Not exactly satisfied with the necessity of paying over so much money 
to the hungry officials who still lingered about Matamoros, he visited 
Gen. Taylor's tent, and stated his wish to ship to the United States 
twenty thousand dollars in gold and silver. " Well," said the general, 
" ship it ; very much pleased you are so disposed." " But," said the 
merchant, hesitating, " the interior and exterior duties." " I know 
nothing about such duties, while I am in Matamoros," said Gen. Taylor. 
The merchant bounced off, congratulating himself in Spanish that the 
Americans had come to the country, as he had made two thousand 
dollars in one day by their so doing, upon a small shipment of specie. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 167 



THE SMITH FAMILY IN MEXICO. 
Scene in Gen. W 'a tent. 

A veiy warm day made the almost constant "Gulf breeze" par- 
ticularly refreshing; one or two field officers had met in Gen. W.'s 
tent, to speculate upon what would be "done next" in the "Mexican 
war." While thus engaged in conversation, a Mexican lady, plainly 
but tastefully dressed, suddenly interrupted the group, followed by an 
attendant, and a nurse bearing a child of an exceedingly blonde ap- 
pearance. The officers rose instantly, and offered her a chair : her 
companion placed herself in its rear, and the nurse kept herself outside, 
to amuse the favorito. The lady spoke eloquently and understand- 
ingly with her eyes — " I came for some information of much import- 
ance to myself." Her tongue spoke it in Spanish, and, although it 
was as musical as falling water, it was as indefinite, in particular 
meaning, to the ears that heard it. — An interpreter was instantly de- 
spatched for, and soon made his appearance, when the following con- 
versation ensued : 

Signora. — My name is Signora Soledad Ortega, and I came to 
inquire for my husband, who is an American ; he left, just before the 
battles, for Corpus Christi, and has not yet returned. 

General. — How long since you saw him ? 

Signora. — Three months. It is three years since we were married, 
and I am ignorant of what keeps him away. 

General. — He is detained, probably, on important business, and I 
trust will soon return ; perhaps I may, by hearing his name, recognise 
an acquaintance. 

Signora. — His name is Don Smeith. 

A tall, raw-boned yankee, who had had the enterprise to go to 
Mexico to make a fortune, get a rich wife, and improve the country, 
rose up in our imagination, but the particular yankee was not sug- 
gested. Gen. W. replied that he was not personally acquainted with 
the lady's husband, and expressed a sincere desire that he would soon 
return ; the conversation then became desultory, and the lady showed 
that she was truly American in heart, as well as her husband. She 
stated, with earnest simplicity of manner, that throughout the bom- 
bardment of Matamoros, she was certain her house would not be 



168 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



struck by the cannon balls, because she was herself Americano, and 
because of her child ; she said, while the dark Castilian blood rushed 
to her cheeks, that when she heard the firing on the battle field, that 
she prayed to the saints that her husband was in the battle, fighting. 
The lady then descanted upon the cheap goods the Americans were 
selling in Matamoros, and said it was a good thing that such was the 
case : the nurse then brought forward the favorito, whose name the 
lady, in the sweetest tones of the Spanish voice, proclaimed to be 
Felipe Ortega Smeith ; then rising, and adjusting most gracefully her 
beautiful reboza, she bade the party adios, and disappeared. 

RIO GRANDE DEER LARGEST ON RECORD. 

There are wandering over the prairies in the vicinity of our camp 
on the Rio Grande, a great number of the finest large-horned cattle in 
the world. M Our Volunteers," wishing for a fresh steak, would oc- 
casionally make one bite the dust. An order came, that no more 
" killing beef" must take place : and no more beef was killed. Scout- 
ing parties now went out for venison ; some good shots were fortu- 
nate enough to kill one. It was dragged into camp, and duly divided 
up among the knowing ones of the regiment. When daylight ap- 
peared, suspicions got out that a beef had been killed. This was 
stoutly denied, and the report was contradicted by the assertion, that 
a deer had been killed weighing over eight hundred pounds. This 
caused universal surprise, especially among certain officers, who de- 
manded to see the horns. After a great deal of delay they were pro- 
duced, and examined by a court martial, who solemnly decided, that 
the deer of the Rio Grande had horns perfectly smooth, and resem- 
bling those of the ox species in other parts of the world. 

MEXICAN SOLDIERS. 

The day on which the battle of Resaca de la Palma was fought, 
was excessively warm, yet large numbers of the Mexican soldiery 
fought throughout the battle, with their heavy overcoats on, or tied 
over their shoulders. It could only be explained in the probable fear 
they had to leave their coats, which answered them for tents and 
bedding, in the camp, exposed to the thievish propensities of the 
rancheros. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 169 

THE TROPHIES OF THE WAR. 

Among the most interesting relics obtained in the battles of the 8th 
and 9th, are the standards of the different companies and regiments. 
They were brought to New Orleans by Lieut. Col. M. M. Payne, while 
on his way with them to Washington. We spent a half hour in ex- 
amining these " pomps and circumstances of war" with the greatest 
interest. We found eighteen in all, seventeen of which are of tri- 
colored woollen or baize cloths, ornamented with the appropriate 
letters and symbols. They are mounted on staffs sharpened with 
iron, and are not only ornamental, but dangerous as offensive wea- 
pons. But the flag of the most absorbing interest is that lettered 

BATALLON 

GUARD A COSTA 

DE TANPICO. 

This magnificent and torn flag, apart from its associations, is re- 
markahle for its appearance, and the materials of which it is formed. 
It is of large size : its field of tri-colored silk, green, white, and red. 
In the centre is embroidered the Mexican coat of arms, more beauti- 
fully than we conceived any modern Penelope had power to do, even 
if her delicate fingers were over skilful at the work. The Mexican 
eagle with its out-stretched wings fairly lay before us, each rustle of 
the flag on which it rested causing the prismatic colors of the atmo- 
sphere to play over the brilliant floss-silk needlework as brilliantly 
as if it had been the plumage of the bird itself. Some fair Mexican 
damsel's bright eyes must have grown weary under their long dark 
lashes, in thus delicately counterfeiting nature. Perhaps it was the 
work of cloistered nuns — some holy sisterhood who, by ascetic life, 
have long attenuated fingers, and thus made more nimble than those 
possessed by the " world's gazers" of their sex. The members of a 
whole convent, probably, have said their matins and then by turns 
wrought upon that banner, which they fondly hoped was destined to 
lead, gloriously, the arms of their country in every fight. Alas ! for 
the fortunes of war. 

That flag, in the battle of the Palo Alto, was torn by our cannon 
shot, and now bears upon its folds the shattered shreds thus rudely 



170 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

made. At the Resaca de la Palma it waved over the bravest troops, 
and floated in the wind as long as its regiment lasted before the terri- 
ble fire of our arms. When all was lost, its bearer tore it from its 
staff and fled, to save it from the stain of capture. Such, however, was 
not to be its fortune. The brave man was met by one of our own 
troops, and hand to hand they fought for the prize — the Mexican 
nerved by every feeling of patriotism, the American by eveiy sentiment 
of a soldier's ambition. The brave standard-bearer was overcome, 
and the precious object of his care became an object of idle curiosity, 
in the hands of his enemy. May it ever be respected among our peo- 
ple, as the only evidence existing of the once brave " Batallon de 
Tanpico." 

A BOXING IRISHMAN. 

After the battle of Resaca de la Palma became general, a private, an 
Irishman, found a bunch of chaparral between himself and a strapping 
Mexican. The Mexican raised his piece, and taking deliberate aim, 
pulled trigger : the piece did not go off. The Mexican again raised 
his musket and snapped, Paddy all the time coolly looking on. At the 
second failure to discharge his piece the Mexican, in a delirium of 
wrath, threw his musket away, and went through various gyrations 
of despair. Paddy, mistaking these eccentricities for a challenge for a . 
fist fight, threw away his musket, and placing himself in an attitude 
that would have delighted deaf Burke, sang out, " Oh, by the powers, 
you will not find me amiss with the fists, if that's yer game." Lieut. 
, who was observing this singular exhibition of coolness and chi- 
valry, ordered the soldier to take up his proper weapon, and send the 
Mexican to his long home, which was done accordingly. 

YOUNG McINTOSH. 

In the hottest part of the battle of the 9th, Lieut. Mcintosh noticed 
a soldier that had been severely wounded in the leg, and who was 
rapidly bleeding to death. He stopped, stooped down, leaned his mus- 
ket in the hollow of his arm, and then tied a handkerchief above the 
wound, thrusting a bayonet in it, so as to form a torniquet, and then 
passed on to the charge. This chivalrous act, which saved the sol- 
dier's life, was performed amid the heaviest fire of the enemy. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 171 



A FIGHTING CLERGYMAN WEST OF THE RIO GRANDE. 

There is precedence for fighting clergymen, — some distinguished 
themselves in the revolution for their spirit and love of liberty. We 
have an excellent specimen of the character now on the Rio Grande. 
The Rev. Capt. R. A. Stuart, of Louisiana, commands as fine a body 
of volunteers as were ever mustered, — he is strict in his discipline, 
yet sociable in his habits, — he has gone into the field with all the 
enthusiasm of a patriot, and all the high duty of a Christian clergyman. 

Sunday, June 1st, will in time be memorable, from the fact that the 
soldier captain preached in Mexico. Throwing aside the military, he 
addressed his brothers in arms, as men, responsible to a Supreme Being 
for their actions ; and his appeals were listened to with the deepest 
interest, and the eyes of many sunburnt veterans, recently distin- 
guished on the field of battle, were filled with tears, and their bosoms 
heaved with emotions more powerful than had ever been called out 
by the brisk cannonade of an enemy. 

The Rev. captain took for his text : If ye oppress not the stranger, 
the fatherless and the ividow, and shed not innocent blood in this place, 
neither walk after other gods to your hurt, 

Then I will cause you to dwell together in this place, in the land I 
gave to your fathers for ever and ever. Jer. vii., 6, 7. 

The comments and illustrations were apposite in the extreme, and 
suggested by the scenes around the speaker. He dwelt upon the in- 
cidents of the preceding month, and of the beautiful spectacle shown 
to the world by a conquering army, extending over a country its 
laws, — which were more benign, more liberal, more protecting, than 
those displaced by the fortunes of Avar. This, said the speaker, 
warming with his subject, is carrying out the spirit of the text, — this 
" is not oppressing the stranger, or the fatherless, or the widow, or 
shedding innocent Moody Such a peaceful conquest, he continued, 
worthily rivals the gallant feats of arms that shone forth on the fields 
of Pala Alto and Resaca de la Palma, — such a peaceful contest went 
beyond the effect of arms — it not only conquered the body, but car- 
ried willingly captive the mind. It was calculated to shed light over 
the dark borders of Tamaulipas, — to make its inhabitants embrace 
the blessings of freedom, — to open their eyes to the degradations of 



172 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

their own government, that enslaves alike their bodies and their minds. 
The soldier-preacher then passed on to the second part of his text, 
— " Then I will cause you to dwell in this place, in the land I gave to 
your fathers for ever and ever?'' It would be impossible for us to 
give the slightest idea of the conclusion of this remarkable discourse. 
The Rev. speaker showed most plainly and beautifully, that it was 
the order of Providence that the Anglo-Saxon race was not only to 
take possession of the whole North American continent, but to influ- 
ence and modify the character of the world, — that such was meant 
by " the land I gave your fathers for ever and everP He stated that 
the American people were children of destiny, and were the passive 
instruments in the hands of an overruling powei, to carry out its 
great designs ; and beautifully illustrated this position by a rapid 
glance at the history of our nation in times past, and the present. He 
concluded by hoping that hostilities with Mexico would cease, — that 
wiser councils would govern at her capitol, — and that peace would 
again extend its wings over her distracted land ; and with a truly 
eloquent burst of patriotism upon the Christian duty of every man's 
standing by his country, so long as a single foe remained in arms 
against her, he sat down, amidst deep, silent, powerfully suppressed 
feeling. 

The Rev. R. A. Stuart is a clergyman of the Methodist church, and 
a sugar planter in the parish of Iberville, Louisiana. 

COMMERCE ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

This river, under the influence of American enterprise, is assuming 
a very busy appearance. The steamers Frontier and Cincinnati have 
arrived at Matamoros, giving to the port of the town a lively appear- 
ance. " River front lots" will soon become valuable in that city, and 
stores will be erected on the water's edge. There was never but one 
steamer on the Rio Grande, we believe, before the " Army of Occu- 
pation" arrived on its banks, and that was owned by one of the Texian 
Austins, as far back as 1827. The boat carried on a very brisk trade 
as high up tne river as Comargo, in hides, tallow, bones, &c, but the 
ranchero muleteers, who had the commerce of the country in their 
own hands, complained to the government in Mexico, and Austin's 
boat was ordered off, and ever after prohibited entering the Rio Grande. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 173 



A BRAVE MEXICAN. 

Died. — On Sunday morning, at 6 o'clock, Capt. Jose A. Baragan, of the 
Mexican army, wounded in the battle on the 9th of May. Capt. Baragan 
was a brave and meritorious officer, and behaved gallantly on the field of 
battle. He was much esteemed by the American officers, and received from 
them every respect and attention. — 3fatamoros Republic of Rio Grande. 

We had the melancholy pleasure of seeing Capt. Baragan, while in 
Matamoros. He was confined to his bed by wounds he received in 
the battle of the 9th. He was an object of interest to the officers of 
the army, because of his gallant bearing in the field of battle, and for 
his fortitude while suffering under his wounds. We heard Col. 
Twiggs observe, that if he died, he should ask permission from head 
quarters to bury the brave Mexican officer with military honors, as a 
last token of admiration for his virtues. These incidents are interest- 
ing, because they display the better side of the soldier's feelings, and 
the soldier's heart. 

SERGEANT VANDENHOOF. 

On the " 9th," Sergeant Vandenhoof, of the Fifth, suddenly came 
on a Mexican : both raised their muskets at the same time, and fired; 
both missed; they then charged with their bayonets, and the Mexi- 
can fell. 

A BOLD ACT, 

Lieut. E. Kirby Smith, of the Fifth regiment of Infantry, in the 
charge of his regiment on the 9th, jumped astride a gun, defended 
himself until it was taken by his comrades, and, thus seated, was drawn 
,by the soldiers into the presence of Gen. Taylor. 

CAPT. BLISS' HORSE. 

This gallant officer, while acting as aid to Gen. Taylor, at the Palo 
Alto, had the nose of his horse cut badly by a cannon shot. Soon 
after, another ball struck the horse, and killed him. 

A DEATH AVENGED. 

Lieut. Chadbourne was killed, when in the act of taking possession 
of a battery, by two lancers ; a brother officer avenged his death, by 
almost instantly killing both of the Mexicans with his sword. 



174 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



a Mexican's eyb to business. 
The immense number of the killed, rendered it impossible for our 
soldiers, detailed for the purpose, to bury them fast enough ; and Gen. 
Taylor sent over to Matamoros for two hundred Mexicans, to assist 
in these solemn rites. Some twenty miserable-looking fellows, in 
obedience to the demand, came across, who were sent to hunt for 
bodies in the out-of-the-way places. They were gone a long time, 
without returning, when it was discovered that they were busy shaving 
the dead horses' tails — the hair being, among the Mexicans, a valuable 
article of merchandise. 

A JERSEY BOY. 

A young man from New Jersey, by the name of Gilbert Dudley, 
had occasion to carry some message to an advance picket, at the time 
the Mexicans were surrounding our army at Fort Brown. On return- 
ing, he saw two Mexican soldiers, seated under a tree, with their 
muskets leaning near them. Dudley instantly sprang in front of the 
muskets, and raising his rifle, signified to the Mexicans that they must 
march in the direction he pointed. They obeyed him, and he thus 
secured two prisoners of war, inarching them into camp. 

DOGS IN THE BATTLE. 

Very many of the officers attached to the " Army of Occupation," 
owned remarkably fine dogs, principally of the pointer and setter 
species. After the battle of the 8th began, and the firing became gene- 
ral, two dogs, remarkable for their intelligence, appeared to listen to 
the confusion for awhile, and after an ardent consultation, they started 
off at great speed for Point Isabel, being the first arrivals at that place 
from the battle field. 

There was one brave dog, however, to redeem the character of the 
species. He posted himself in front of one of the batteries, and 
watched with intense gravity the appearance of the ball ; the instant 
it was discharged, he would start after it at full speed, expressing 
great surprise that it was out of sight so suddenly; he would then 
wheel round, and watch the appearance of another ball, and then 
again commence the futile chase, and so continued throughout the 
action, escaping unharmed. 



ANECDOTES AND INCIDENTS. 175 



gen. Taylor's frankness. 

Gen. Taylor never concealed any of his plans, where it was at all 
necessary that they should become known in a business way. On 
all occasions he acts with the greatest frankness towards his own coun- 
trymen, and towards the Mexicans. As an illustration of his off-hand 
manner, we heard the following authentic anecdote : 

After Gen. Taylor had informed the Mexicans that he should take 
Matamoros, a deputation of its citizens waited upon him, with the 
evident intention of delaying the occupation. Gen. Taylor replied that 
he should take the city at a given time, naming it ; and said, that if 
any opposition was made, he would batter it down, and if the delega- 
tion thought he could not do it, they might walk up to Fort Broicn, 
and examine his preparations for themselves. 

WINNING A SADDLE. 

Among the Texian Rangers, " winning a saddle," means, taking one 
from a Mexican. On the 8th, when Gen. Torrejon charged with his 
cavalry, a Mexican officer and horse fell upon the field. A Texian 
dismounted amidst the very charge, and in an instant almost, transfer- 
red the officer's saddle to his own horse, and left his own in its place, 
saying, that if it was not a fair exchange, the owner might come to 
him, and he would pay the difference. 

THE FORCE OF A BALL. 

A scopet was found on the Resaca de la Palma, through the side 
of a barrel of which, had passed a musket ball. The scopet is kept 
as a curiosity. 

MEXICAN RATIONS. 

The Mexicans had a curious way of carrying their rations ; many 
wore heavy high-crowned leather hats. In the top of some of these 
hats, there were tin pans ingeniously fitted in, and filled with food. 

CRANIOLOGICAL CURIOSITY. 

The heads of the Mexicans found on the battle field, were remark- 
ably small and round; their hats appeared to be short sections of 
stove-pipe. Their teeth were invariably good. 



176 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



A SQUADRON OF DISAPPOINTED LOVERS. 

Capt. May, who wears his hair and beard very long, on account of 
the climate, caused thereby much speculation as to the reason. Some 
of the papers stated, it was on account of disappointed love. It is a 
singular coincidence, if this be true, that every man attached to May's 
command is afflicted in the same way, as they all have, more or less, 
long hair and long beards. Such a brave set of disappointed lovers, 
we think, never before got together; they stand up against their 
wounded hearts most manfully, and seem likely to get through with 
them, without much ultimate injury. 

MEXICAN CRUELTY. 

During Capt. May's charge, Lieut. Z. M. P. Inge fell at the head of 
his platoon, mortally wounded in the throat by a cannon shot ; his 
horse was also killed. In the midst of the battle, his body was 
stripped by the rancheros, and mutilated with their spears. 

BEAUTIFUL REMARK. 

A gentleman expressing some surprise that Gen. Taylor was so 
promptly made a major general, was replied to as follows : — " Gen. 
Taylor wrote out his claims to the title of major general on the battle 
field, and public opinion gave him his commission." 

CHIVALROUS ACT. 

A sergeant of Capt. Cobun's company, Third regiment, in charging 
a Mexican battery aimed at our advancing columns, saw one of the 
Mexican gunners light its quick match, and then retreat ; the sergeant 
rushed upon the piece, pulled out the match, and then followed on 
with his company. 



ANNIVERSARIES. 177 



CHAPTER XXI. 

Translations from Mexican papers found in Matamoros — An editor speculates 
on the propriety of anniversaries — He glories in the great days of the Mexi- 
can nation — Some doubt comes on his mind about the unsullied character 
of his national flag — Glorious prospects, if certain things come to pass — 
Ampudia's resignation to Arista — Canales threatens to exterminate the 
Anglo-American nation — Ampudia's proclamation against illicit trade — 
Arista's report of the Mexican killed and wounded on the 8th and 9th — 
Parrode to the troops of the department of Tamaulipas. 

" Every nation has one or more days, consecrated to perpetuate 
the memory of those events that have affected "its history the most 
before the world. Such has been the practice of nations, since the re- 
motest antiquity. Thus Greece, and Rome, and almost all the pagan 
nations, raised temples to their illustrious captains, in commemoration 
of the battles they had won, in which they deposited their tributes 
of homage, as well as their tears, to the memory of those killed in 
their country's cause. Modern nations, and Mexico, have imitated 
and observed this custom, and for this reason, among us, the 1 6th of 
September, 1810, has been decreed a solemn anniversary: on such a 
day, our gratitude must be a public one, as the 16th of September 
was marked by the finger of God, as the day in which the cry 
should be given, which at whose echo the lion of Spain fell pros- 
trate, to be replaced by the eagle of anahuac, the movements of 
whose wings astonished the world, by showing to it the wonderful 
metamorphose of the existence of seven millions of inhabitants, which 
it was before ignorant of. In the same manner, the 27th of September, 
1821, after eleven years of a bloody war, and after many brave heads 
had been cut off by the executioner, is a grateful day to the Mexicans, 
as it gave to them a country, and in it the catalogue of nations was 
increased. 

" But, coming to our object, there are days which we wish were 
covered with a veil, as they bring to us fatal ideas ; such as the 21st 
of April, 1836, as in it, by an unpardonable neglect, a spot has been 
left, which we would wish was not indelible, on the tri-colored flag j 

12 



178 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

that flag, at whose move fled panic-struck the hosts of the degenerate 
sons of Pelayus, and of the conquerors of the heroes of Marengo, 
Austerlitz, and the Pyramids. 

" It was ten years ago, that, in spite of the glorious engagements in 
which was exhibited the courage of the Mexican troops, valiant par 
excellence, that they, at least, had to yield the place, to say so, to 
those coward enemies, that had raised the flag of ignominy, San 
Jacinto ! This is distinguished as the loss of Texas, though the 
true motives were only the fruits of our inexperience and foresighted- 
ness. San Jacinto caused remembrances that will be forever odious, 
until we punish those who pretended to be friends of Mexico, the 
better to evade and usurp our property. 

" The consciousness of our superiority, and the confidence that the 
Supreme Being will approve of the victory to be had over the North 
American army encamped opposite this city, on the left bank of the 
Bravo ; and the horrible precedents of the generals commanding the 
Division of the North, are among the powerful reasons which move 
us, since we have begun to edit this journal, with the just end to ob- 
tain more glory to Mexico, by raising the warlike spirit of our troops, 
if these troops, so accustomed to fight with courage for the holy rights 
of their country, need be excited to it. 

" No matter if we are blamed for it ; we would have thought it a 
good omen if we had opened our fires on the enemy two or three 
days before this, relying that the justice of the God of battles would 
be ready to fulminate on the day the terrible sword on the heads of 
the wretches ; that is to say, that this had been done exactly on the 
Tenth anniversary of the terrible defeat of San Jacinto. 

" We must confess though, that, convinced as we are that the day 
will pass without verifying the accomplishment of our desires, we let 
fall on these lines tears of grief — patriotic tears — falling perhaps 
without much cause, but which sadden our hearts, as does the sight 
of the North American soldier to that of the Republic. Nevertheless, 
we are cheered by the grateful consideration that in the bosoms of our 
warriors are burning feelings and patriotic enthusiasms ; and we are 
convinced that if the battle was not given on the day we thought pre- 
destinated for the vengeance of a great crime, it will be given at an 
early day. The soul of the Mexican cannot look with indifference 



LETTER FROM CANALES. 179 

upon the odious flag waving before him — odious flag of the stars. 
Maybe to day — and this thought is terrible — our enemies are toasting 
in their curst orgies to the memory of this event, to them so glorious, 
to us so degrading. Let them tremble amidst their rejoicings, as the 
veterans of our country will soon plant the tables of their repasts upon 
the torn corses of their invaders. 

" His Excellency, the commander-in-chief of the Division of the 
North, Don Mariano Arista, comes resolved to combat for the honor of 
the Republic. He accepted the command offered to him by the supreme 
government for the noble purpose of showing to the proud Mississippi 
Riflemen what the bayonets of our soldiers can do. Let Heaven pro- 
tect our just cause. Let the arrival of Gen. Arista be the knell of the 
extermination of the Anglo-Saxon race. 

[Matamoros, April 15 — Aquila del Norte.] 
Secretary of the Second General-in-Chief^ 
of the Division of the North. 3 

Honored Sir : — Trusting, after having sent to you the extraordi- 
nary express by which I announce to you the approaching triumph 
of our arms over the invading enemy, I received the order which your 
Excellency communicated to me from his Excellency, the President 
ad interim, to deliver up the command-in-chief of the division to his 
Excellency the Gen. Don Mariano Arista ; and for its fulfilment I have 
made his Excellency known in such character in the general order of 
day. Few hours were wasted to carry into execution the plan, which 
I had made myself, when I also received the official despatch, of which 
the accompanying is a copy. The military laws being so strict, no- 
thing is left for me to do but to obey superior orders. 

God and liberty! — Matamoros, April 14. 

PEDRO AMPUDIA. 

To his Excellency, the Minister of War and Marine. 

Auxiliary Regiment of the Cities of the North : 

Since the very hour in which your Excellency left this frontier, the 
persecutions began against the citizens who form this Auxiliary Regi- 
ment, which, from its formation has been under my orders : but even 
this is nothing. The persecution was extended to all the citizens of 



]80 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the cities of the north that had assisted, in conjunction with the regi- 
ment, to give your Excellency the civic and unfading crown which 
you so justly deserve. Camargo, Mier, Guerrero, and Reinoso were 
freed in December '42, by your Excellency's heroic and brave efforts. 
What are our emotions and feelings of gratitude at seeing your Excel- 
lency at the head of our forces, none better than your Excellency can 
estimate : to attempt to explain them would be impossible. It seems 
as if Providence, in its inscrutable designs, had marked your Excel- 
lency as the powerful liberator of these inhabitants. Twice have they 
been near deserted, and as many times has your Excellency appeared 
as their tutelary deity, to deliver them from a complete extermination. 
Let your Excellency then receive, on this occasion, the most grateful 
congratulations, not only from me, but from the Auxiliary Regiment 
under my command, for your happy arrival in this city, and for the wise 
appointment which the supreme government has made in naming you 
our commander-in-chief; whose mere presence at our head is a sure 
and happy omen of the future victory that awaits us. On this account 
we congratulate your Excellency, as under your command triumph is 
certain. The hated flag of the stars and stripes will shortly be hum- 
bled at the feet of our eagle. The madness of ambition or rapacity 
are natural evils, which carry their own punishment. Your Excel- 
lency may depend upon my efforts, and those of the regiment under 
my command, to carry into effect the destruction of the North Ameri- 
cans, and those who may pretend to imitate them. 

God and liberty! — Guadaloupe Camp, April 13, 1846. 

ANTONIO CANALES. 

To His Ex. the General-in-Chief, Don Pedro Apmudia. 

Division of the North,") 
General-in-Chief, y 
Considering that the hour has arrived for taking vigorous and pre- 
ventive measures, to clear the eastern department from Anglo-Ameri- 
can rapacity; and that, according to the rights and laws of war, every 
one who may be a traitor to his country, or a spy to the enemy, 
must suffer the penalty of death, without any remission whatever ; and 
lastly, considering that it is my sacred duty to put a stop to the con- 
traband trade carried on with the Americans, and making use of the 
powers granted me by the existing laws, I have resolved — 



KILLED AND WOUNDED OFFICERS. 181 

1st. That every natural citizen, or stranger residing on this frontier, 
or in any of the towns of the three eastern departments, who shall 
lend aid, either directly or indirectly, to the enemies, shall be shot. 

2d. All those, that after the publication of this proclamation, shall 
continue the baneful contraband trade with the enemy, will suffer the 
same penalty of the former article, it being granted, that the North 
Americans, in marching troops to the left bank of the Rio Grande, have 
in fact declared war. 

3d. The civil and judicial authorities are charged strictly to accom- 
plish these preventive measures, at their own responsibility. 

PEDRO DE AMPUDIA. 

Head Quarters, Reonosa, April 8, 1846. 

Arista's Report. 
Division of the North. 

List of Officers killed and wounded in the battles of the 8th and 9th. 

BATTLE OF THE EIGHTH. 

Killed — Capt. Antonio Rubi ; Lieutenants Pedo Mabury, Francisco 
Rosas, and Francisco Battala. 

Wounded — Col. Luis Foriega ; Captains Ignacir Gutierez, Juan Gar- 
redo, Guabalupe Cardenas, Telesforo Carrion, Leonardo Picazo, Fer- 
nando Marrni; Lieutenants Remijis Osorno, Antonio Daza, Manuel 
Mastareno, and Ensign Leopoldo Mijia. 

BATTLE OF THE NINTH. 

Killed — Captains Jose Ramires, Manuel Arana, Pedro Apesteguia ; 
Lieutenants Francisco Pacheco, Antonio Lousa,and Ensign Jose Martel. 

Wounded — Lieutenant Colonels Francisco Garcia Cazanova, Mari- 
ano Fernandez ; Commander of Battalion, J. Maria Mateus ; Comman- 
der of Squadron, Ignacio Pena ; Captains Jose Barreiro, Jose Garduno, 
Idelfondo Vega, Mariano Blanco, Jose Felix Velez, Jose Apolonio Bar- 
ragan; Lieutenants Antonio Aguinaja, Anselmo Juarez, Doroter Nava, 
Antonio Villegas, Lauro Ordonez, Mariano Sandi, Juan Larrondo, Luir 
Vargas, Camilo Granados, Roman Gil, Francisco Rivas ; Ensigns Mijuel 
Gutierrez, Cristoval Castro. 

Memorandum 1st— -All the officers, except Capt. Pedro Apesteguia 
and Ensign Jose Martel, who were drowned in crossing the river, died 
on the battle field. 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

2d — Lieut. Anselmo Juarez and Ensign Manuel Marano, have just 
died of their wounds. 

Division of the North,") 

Commander-in-Chief, j 

The enclosed despatch will inform your Excellency of the number 
of wounded and killed, that we have had, as well as of those missing 
yet, and that our troops amount to four thousand men, exclusive of 
the numerous auxiliary troops. 

MARIANO ARISTA. 

The Commander-in- Chief of the Department of Tamaulipas, to the 
troops under his command : 

Fellow Soldiers : The afternoon of the 8th of this month, our 
brothers of Matamoros have fought with intrepidity and enthusiasm 
in the Fanques del Ramerino : on the 9th, they charged again with the 
same ardor. But fate has not crowned our efforts ; the enemy passed 
from the fort, favored by the dense smoke of a wood on fire, which 
protected them from our shot ; thus have our enemies escaped ! 

Soldiers : Another time we shall conquer ; such is the fate of war ; 
a defeat to-day, and glory to-morrow ; that glory will be ours at the 
end of this holy struggle. The God of battles is trying our valor, but 
he has not abandoned us : we know how to conquer, and we know 
how to suffer. 

Soldiers: The lamentation of the soldier for the companion who 
dies on the field of battle, ought to be a shot well aimed at the enemy. 
Those are the tears which our brothers require of our love. Their 
tomb must be raised in the American camp. The corpses of the Yankees 
ought to form their mausoleums. 

Soldiers : If we have lost some of our brothers, the glory will be 
greater ; there will be fewer conquerors ; it is not the number which 
gives victory. There were but three hundred Spartans, and the power- 
ful Xerxes did not cross the Thermopylae. The celebrated army of 
the great Napoleon perished in Spain, at the hands of a defenceless 
people, but they were free and intrepid, and were fighting for their 
liberty. 

Fellow soldiers : Shall we do less than they did ? We are fighting 
for our liberty, our religion, our country, our cradles, our graves. Let 



PARRODE'S PROCLAMATION. 183 



he who does not wish to die a traitor — he who wishes to deserve the 
tears of his children, let him take breath and sustain his courage; he 
must not faint — he must not fear. But, what have we to fear ? The 
heart tells us, that in it we shall find all that is requisite, and our hearts 
we will oppose to the enemy. 

Soldiers : Vengeance for our brothers ! glory for our children ! honor 
for our country ! 

We will defend those cherished feelings. Do not fear. I swear to 
you, that if the day be a laborious one, our glory will be sweeter ; 
but glory we will have, and your general and companion will attain 
it with your loyalty and valor. 

ANASTATIO PARRODE. 

Tampico, May 13, 1846. 



184 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Major General Z. Taylor — His military history. 

The brilliant events which have become associated with the "Army 
of Occupation," have made Major Gen. Taylor one of the most con- 
spicuous men of the nation. He has shown himself eminently an 
example of true American character, by being equal to any emergency. 
The very difficulties under which he has labored, in the most trying 
eras of his life, have called forth traits of character, civil, and military, 
of the highest order. His despatches, for their modesty, clearness, 
and good taste, have been admired the world over, while they have, 
at the same time, recorded victories in arms, unsurpassed for bril- 
liancy in the annals of war. 

Major Gen. Taylor was born in Orange county, Virginia, on the 
24th of November, 1784. His father, Capt. Dick Taylor, removed 
to the " dark and bloody ground" before Zachary was a year old, he 
was therefore raised and educated in Kentucky. His father was a 
chivalrous man, and remarkable for his daring, even among the bold 
spirits that filled the West in its early days. Zachary was a lad of 
active habits, and fond of athletic sports. It is related of him that, 
when he was a young man, he swam, with his brother, from the 
Kentucky shore across to the Indiana side of the river, and back again, 
at a time when it was booming with the high water of March, and 
freezing from the cold weather. Immediately after the news spread 
through the country of the attack on the Chesapeake, he entered the 
army as a lieutenant, being then twenty-four years of age ; he rose to 
the rank of captain before the close of the war. 

Capt. Taylor was first brought prominently before the people of 
the country in 1812, by his gallant defence of Fort Harrison. On 
the 5th of September of that year, the fort, then in the Territory of 
Indiana, was attacked by the Miamis in large force, and by him re- 
pulsed. On the evening of the 3d, four guns were heard, which 



GENERAL TAYLOR'S HISTORY. 185 

Capt. Taylor presumed were fired upon two young men, who had 
previously gone out of the fort; as a party, under the command of 
" the Prophet," was known to be skulking about. There were in the 
stockade a number of sick, nine women and children, and but fifteen 
or sixteen men fit for duty. Waiting until morning, Capt. Taylor 
then sent out a small party, to learn, if possible, the cause of the firing 
the night previous. The bodies of the two young men were found 
scalped, and otherwise mutilated; their remains were brought into 
the fort and buried. A communication was soon afterwards received 
from the Prophet, that left no doubt that a hostile attack might soon 
be expected. Capt. Taylor, although having just recovered from a 
severe indisposition, personally inspected the different defences, ex- 
amined the guns, and delivered ammunition to his men. Every pre- 
caution was taken to guard against surprise, it being by him resolved 
not to surrender the fort while he lived, however great a force might 
be brought against it. At midnight he was called from his quarters, 
with the announcement that the Indians had fired the lower block 
house ; a building that contained a large portion of the stores of the 
army contractor. The enemy, at the same time, assisted by the light, 
commenced with their rifles. Orders were immediately issued for the 
buckets to be got ready, and for water to be drawn from the well, to 
extinguish the conflagration which had not yet extended far. The 
men, however, either from sickness, or apprehension of defeat, did 
not spring to their work with spirit ; the fire rapidly extended, reached 
the store room, and exploded a quantity of whiskey, throwing the 
flames to the roof of the building; the men in the fort gave up in 
despair. 

The scene was now terrible ; the illumination made by the burning 
building, in the dark night, gave every thing a mysterious and repul- 
sive look, and reflected upon the faces of hundreds of painted savages, 
who mingled their war hoop, and rifles, with the crackling of the 
burning buildings, and the screams of the women and children in the 
fort. So completely were the soldiers paralysed, that two of the 
stoutest deserted their posts. 

The whole of the resources of Capt. Taylor were now called into 
requisition. He ordered a number of his men to mount the roof of 
the barrack building, and throw off such parts as were in contact with 



186 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the block house : he then kept the gable end thoroughly. Laboring 
with his men, he pointed out to them how the buildings could be 
saved. Hope began to revive at the prospect of success ; the men 
labored with spirit, and the block house gradually burned down, with- 
out communicating its fire to the adjoining buildings. To protect the 
opening thus made in the fort, a breast work had been erected in ad- 
vance, which completely protected it from the assaults of the Indians, 
who found themselves foiled and defeated, when they thought they 
had accomplished an easy victory over the fort. The fire was now 
returned from the fort upon the Miamis, who, finally, sullenly re- 
treated ; Capt. Taylor having lost only one man. 

With a modesty characteristic of his despatches from the Rio 
Grande, Capt. Taylor related the attack and repulse of the Miamis 
upon his fort, to Gen. Harrison. President Madison shortly after- 
wards conferred upon Capt. Taylor the brevet rank of Major, for his 
gallantry. 

In 1832, with the rank of Colonel conferred upon him, he was ac- 
tively engaged in the Black Hawk war, commanding the First Infantry 
and the Sixth. In 1836, he was ordered to Florida. The year fol- 
lowing, he received the title of Brevet Brigadier General. In Florida 
he distinguished himself by being among the foremost in danger, esta- 
blishing a lasting fame by his celebrated battle of the O-ke-cho-bee. 
Story hath it, that Gen. Taylor was challenged to battle by Alligator, 
an invitation to fight readily accepted. The Indians were confident 
of success, as they were to be met in their own entrenchments ; the 
O-ke-cho-bee being the only place, in the Florida war, where the In- 
dians voluntarily met our troops. The Indians, seven hundred in num- 
ber, were entrenched in a strong position, in a thick swamp, covered 
in front by a small stream, which was rendered totally impassable by 
quicksands. Col. Taylor charged on the Indians with about four 
hundred men, composed of the First, Fourth, and Sixth regiments of 
the U. S. infantry, and a number of Missouri volunteers. 

The battle was hotly contested ; for three hours our troops sus- 
tained a deadly fire, driving the Indians before them inch by inch, with 
the point of the bayonet. One hundred and thirty-nine of our troops 
were killed, being nearly one-third of our whole force. Col. Taylor 
was on horseback throughout the whole contest, exposed to the 



GEN. TAYLOR'S HISTORY. 187 

deadly fire of the enemy, frequently in the thickest of the fight, en- 
couraging his troops by his presence, and cheering them on in the 
deadly charge. Victory was complete : the battle of O-ke-cho-bee 
was the last stand where the Indians, in any body, met our troops. 
After five years' arduous service, Gen. Taylor resigned his command 
in Florida. 

After Gen. Taylor's retirement from Florida, he was assigned the 
command of the First Department of the army, including the states 
of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, &c, with his head quarters at 
Fort Jessup. His position gave him command of the " Army of Oc- 
pation." 

The brilliant events that have crowned the history of the Army of 
Occupation, are familiar with the world. On the 29th of June, the 
President enclosed to Brevet Brigadier General Taylor, the commis- 
sion of Brevet Major General, for his brilliant achievements on the 
Palo Alto, and Resaca de la Palma. Lastly, by the recommendation 
of the President, the unanimous consent of the Senate, and the uni- 
versal sanction of the people of the United States, Zachary Taylor 
was appointed a Major General of the United States Army. 



OBITUARY 



MAJOR JACOB BROWN. 

Major Jacob Brown, whose death occurred during the bombardment 
of " Fort Brown," (which appellation it has received in respect to his me- 
mory,) was a native of Berkshire, Massachusetts. — In 1812, he enlisted in 
the army, as a private soldier. He served with great gallantry throughout 
the war, and was in all the battles on the frontiers, through 1813 and '14. 
But before the close of the war, he was commissioned with a lieutenancy 
for good conduct in the battle of Chrisler's fields, and since that time he 
had risen, through regular gradations, to the rank of Major. 

In his long service of thirty-four years, Major Brown had many respon- 
sible tasks imposed upon him, all of which he fulfilled with honor to him- 
self and country. He possessed the entire confidence and love of all. It 
is said that he never was engaged in a duel, except as a peace-maker 
between belligerents, and that he w r as never tried by a court martial. He 
is represented as having been an excellent disciplinarian, and a prudent 
and most efficient commander. 

Major Brown was a man of sound judgment, and of remarkable kindness 
of heart. He was beloved by all who knew him, and his fall in the fort 
caused the greatest feeling on the part of the soldiers. Many of them 
shed tears, in their uncontrollable sorrow at his and their misfortune. 

In battle he was distinguished for his great coolness, military skill, and 
singular courage. Gen. Taylor pronounced his loss "irreparable. 7 ' 

During his public career, he was at various times intrusted by govern- 
ment with large sums of money, and was always remarkable for his accu- 
racy, untiring attention, great system, correctness, probity, and punctuality 
in every thing relating to business. He resided for many years at Little 
Rock, Arkansas, and was so much respected by its citizens for his integrity 
and business habits, that, although an officer in the United States Army, 
he was elected president of the Bank of Arkansas, which office he well 
filled for a year, when he terminated this service by resignation. The 
high respect in which he was held by the civilians of the country, is illus- 
trated by the proceedings of a public meeting at Little Rock, held imme- 
ately on receipt of the intelligence of his death, at which were passed the 
following resolutions, the mayor of the city presiding : 

" Resolved, That in the midst of the rejoicings occasioned by the victories 

189 



190 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

achieved by the Army of Occupation under the command of Gen. Taylor, 
we grieve for the loss of many brave* officers in the American army, and 
among the number of the slain, we have to deplore the loss of Major Jacob 
Brown, of the Seventh regiment of Infantry, for many years associated and 
known in this community as a faithful, honest, and efficient public officer. 

"Resolved, That our sorrow for his untimely loss to the army and to the 
country, is consoled by the manner of his death, in the service of his 
country, by the hand of the enemy, on the field of battle, and in the hour 
of victory. 

" Resolved, That we desire in this public and solemn manner to testify 
our regard and esteem for the private virtues and personal worth of the 
deceased soldier, while he was associated with us, our admiration of his 
public services in peace and in war, and our deep sense of the crowning 
sacrifice of his life, that endears his memory to his countrymen. 

"Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting be signed by the chair- 
man and secretary, and that the papers of the city, and throughout the 
state, be requested to publish them; and that a copy thereof be made out 
by the secretary of this meeting, and transmitted to the family of the 
deceased." 

Major Brown left, at his death, a wife and two daughters, to mourn 
their loss, and inherit his honorable fame. 



MAJOR SAMUEL RINGGOLD, 

THIRD ARTILLERY. 

This distinguished officer, whose death cast a gloom over the glorious 
events of a victorious battle field, was a native of Washington Co., Mary- 
land. He was born at Front Park, near Hagerstown. Major Ringgold 
was the son of Gen. Samuel Ringgold, who at one time represented the 
state of Maryland in the United States Senate. He was educated at West 
Point, at which place he graduated with the highest honors ; after which, 
he visited all the celebrated military schools of Europe; studied at the 
Poletechnique, and at Woolwich, and took advantage of every other facility 
afforded in Europe, to accomplish himself in military tactics, particularly 
in those relating to artillery. On his return to the United States ; he dis- 
tinguished himself for his persevering efforts to have created an efficient 
artillery arm, as a part of the military establishment of the country. No 
one with less energy of character than Major Ringgold possessed, would 
have succeeded, as public opinion was not in favor of it; but all that the 
gallant Ringgold promised for flying artillery, was more than realised at 
the battle of Palo Alto. 



MAJOR SAMUEL RINGGOLD. 191 

Major Ringgold eminently possessed the power to infuse among his 
command his own spirit, and to impart to his officers his extensive know- 
ledge ; in illustration of which, we have only to look at the accomplished 
officers he has left to assume his place. The press of the whole country 
testified sorrow at his glorious, yet melancholy death : where he was most 
known, he was most honored. With Major Brown he was singularly 
popular, while among the civilians of the country he found hosts of enthu- 
siastic admirers. Baltimore, the capital of his native state, particularly 
testified its sorrow at his death, most of the inhabitants knowing him per- 
sonally, from his long occupation of Fort McHenry. 

When the news of his death arrived in that city, it caused the liveliest 
demonstrations of grief. Col. Davies announced it to a meeting of thou- 
sands assembled in Monument Square, and drawn together to learn the 
particulars of the battle of the 8th. The instant it was announced that 
Ringgold had fallen, every head was uncovered, a silence came over the 
vast multitude. This was a fearfully sublime tribute to the hero's memory. 
On the following day, the attorney general of the state, with some touch- 
ingly eloquent remarks, announced his death in the Baltimore county court- 
Motion was made instantly to adjourn, upon which the Hon. Judge Le 
Grand said — 

" In the motion of the attorney general, the court recognise a becoming 
appreciation of the sad feeling which the announcement of the death of 
our brave townsman has inspired in the bosoms of our entire community. 
It is fitting that the court, and indeed every branch of the government, 
should exhibit the sincerest evidences of the affliction which all have sus- 
tained, in the death of one, who surrendered his life in the defence of his 
country. Custom has prescribed, amongst its usually cold ceremonials, the 
expression of grief at the final departure of any distinguished citizen; but 
when the resolute and noble defender of the honor of the country and the 
integrity of its soil, is swallowed up in the jaws of death, whilst in the act 
of adding by his daring intrepidity another brilliant page to its history, the 
patriotic heart properly demands, and will have, the tribute which the just, 
and the grateful, ever promptly pay to the gallant dead. To us, all this is 
evident by the gloom which is everywhere in our city; and which, the 
enunciation of a succession of the glorious victories of our arms, cannot 
dispel. The court, therefore, can have no difficulty in concurring in the 
motion, responsive as is that concurrence to the feelings of the community 
and of its own. Major Ringgold was a citizen of Baltimore, known to us 
all, to some of us intimately, and by whomsoever, and wheresover known, 
recognised as a gentleman of the highest sense of honor, and of the kind- 
liest feelings of which humanity is susceptible. He is gone, but the fame 



192 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

his late brilliant conduct won, will henceforth constitute a part of the pride 
and history of his country. Let the court stand adjourned until to-morrow 
morning at 10 o'clock." And the court accordingly adjourned. 

On the 26th, the flags of the city and the shipping, were displayed at 
half-mast, enshrouded in crape. 

Upon the arrival in New Orleans of the military costume of Major Ring- 
gold, a great sensation was created, and many manly tears were shed over 
the relics of the honored dead. They were presented by the friends of 
the deceased, to the "Ringgold Infantry*' of Baltimore; by them, to be 
preserved through time, as the most precious treasure in their possession. 

The necessary measures have been taken to have his remains removed 
from the desolate barren of Point Isabel, to be buried with military honors 
in Baltimore. Among the ceremonies provided for, is, "that the remains 
will be kept in the Rotunda for a few days, with a military guard of honor 
constantly present, to enable companies in distant portions of the state, 
to gratify the wishes they have expressed, to participate in the ceremonies ; 
and the time fixed for the funeral, will be communicated to all companies 
not located in Baltimore, upon their expressing such a wish, by letter ad- 
dressed to the Eagle Artillery Company, who are charged with all the 
details of the funeral." 

Among the many tributes to the memory of Major Ringgold, that have 
been written in the gush of feeling occasioned by his death, the following, 
from a southern pen, will harmonise with the feelings of all : 

SONNET. 

IN MEMORY OF MAJOR RINGGOLD. 

With solemn step the column files away; 

'Tis done! a buried hero sleeps below; 
The eye is dim that kindled in the fray — 

The hand is cold that dealt a freeman's blow ! 
Sleep sweetly, soldier ! in thy narrow bed ! 

Rest softly, Ringgold ! in a soldier's grave ! 

Bright be the flow'rs that softly o'er thee wave, 
And green the turf that swells above thy head ! 
No braver heart than thine e'er beat beneath 

The starry banner's proudly glittering wave; 
None nobler ever won the glory wreath; 

None truer consecrates a soldier's grave ! 
Then, rest thee ! on thy country's southern strand, 
Hero ! of daring soul, and mighty hand ! 
Vicksburg. J. E. C. 



CAPT. PAGE AND LIEUT. BLAKE. 193 

CAPT. JOHN PAGE, 

FOURTH REGIMENT OF INFANTRY. 

Capt. Page was a native of Maine ; he was appointed a second lieutenant 
of the Eighth Infantry, from Massachusetts, on the 13th of February, 1818. 
He was breveted 1st January, 1829, and received his commission of cap- 
tain the 30th of April, 1831. 

Capt. Page was wounded just before the close of the battle of the 8th, 
and just before Major Ringgold fell, at the time the enemy concentrated 
all their fire upon Ringgold's and Col. Churchill's batteries, the gallant 
Fourth supporting them at the time, many soldiers of which fell with their 
captain. A cannon ball struck down Capt. Page, while in command of 
his division, with such force as to carry with him the three men next be- 
hind him. His whole lower jaw was shot away, making one of the most 
ghastly wounds that could be conceived of. He was conveyed to Point 
Isabel, where he was carefully attended to. The injuries he received in 
his trip from Point Isabel to New Orleans, a short time since, did much to 
depress the sanguine hopes of his friends for his final recovery; but having 
met with his devoted wife, whose efforts to reach him after he was wound- 
ed, was so womanly, and so often frustrated by a series of accidents, it 
was believed he would recover. Fate ordered it otherwise, and he sleeps 
with Ringgold, Brown, and others, who gave up their lives in defending 
the honor of the arms of their country. 

Capt. Page died on Monday morning, July 13th, 1846, on board of the 
steamer Missouri, while on his way to Jefferson Barracks ; to which place 
his remains were taken, and with every honor, consigned to their mother 
earth. 



LIEUT. J. E. BLAKE, 

CORPS OF TOPOGRAPHICAL ENGINEERS. 

Lieut. Blake, a native of Pennsylvania, and a graduate of West Point, 
has caused his memory to be cherished by his gallant conduct on the 8th, 
and the melancholy circumstances of his death created a sympathy with 
every officer and soldier in the army. Of his death, Gen. Worth, in writ- 
ing to a friend, says, " You will probably by this mail hear of the loss of 
that gallant ornament and devoted member of the Topographical Corps, my 
warmly-cherished friend, Blake. The manner adds poignancy to our sor- 
rows. Had he fallen in the conflict, in which, by all accounts, he had 
especially distinguished himself, regrets would have been turned into envy. 
After the battle, on casting aside his weapons, one of his pistols accident- 

13 



194 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

ally discharged, and gave him a mortal wound. Knowing and valuing 
him as I did. you will readily conceive .how I deplore his loss, both as a 
gallant and true-hearted friend, and accomplished comrade. He has left 
no better soldier behind." 

Capt. James Duncan, Second regiment of Artillery, made the following 
report to the commander of the First brigade, relative to Lieut. Blake's 
chivalrous reconnoisance on the day previous to the commencement of the 
battle of the 8th. 

Camp Matamoros, Mexico. May 30, 1846. 

General : — The following brief account of the daring reconnoisance 
made by the gallant and ill-fated Blake, at Palo Alto, cannot fail to be in- 
teresting to his former commander, with whom he was so long associated, 
and who properly estimated and appreciated the high qualities he pos- 
sessed as a man and a soldier. 

At Palo Alto the enemy's line was formed with his back resting on the 
chaparral. Partly owing to the bushes in which some of his troops were 
posted, but chiefly owing to our distance from his lines, it was impossible 
to ascertain, with the necessary certainty, the disposition he had made of 
his different arms. 

To obtain the important information. Lieut. J. E. Blake, of the Topo- 
graphical Corps, dashed off from the right of our line to within musket 
shot of the enemy's left. Here he dismounted, and with his field glass 
coolly counted the number of men in one of the enemy's squadrons, which, 
of course, enabled him accurately to estimate the enemy's entire cavalry 
force. Lieut. Blake then remounted his horse, and galloped from left to 
right of the enemy's line, stopping from time to time, and carefully ob- 
serving the formation and number of his infantry, as well as the position, 
number, and calibre of his field guns, all of which information was fully 
verified by the subsequent events of the day. 

This appropriate act of personal gallantry was certainly unsurpassed on 
either of our glorious days; and, in my own estimation, it had no superior 
in interest, among the many it may become the pleasing task for history 
to record. 

Very respectfully, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, 

JAMES DUNCAN, 
Capt. Second Artillery, com'g. Field Artillery First Brigade. 

Gen. Worth, 

Commanding First Brigade. 

The remains of Lieut. Blake were consigned to the silent tomb, by 



LIEUTENANTS CHADBOURNE AND INGE. 195 

torch light, on the field of Palo Alto, on the evening of the "Ninth," near 
the entrenchment thrown up for the protection of the train. 








Grave of Lieut. Blake. 



LIEUT. THEODORE LINCOLN CHADBOURNE, 

EIGHTH REGIMENT OF INFANTRY. 

Lieut. Chadbourne, who was killed on the Resacade la Palma, in the 
deadly charge of the Eighth regiment, was a native of Eastport, Maine. 
He was of most excellent military descent, being great-grandson of Major 
Gen. Lincoln of the Revolutionary army. He met his death long before 
he had arrived at the prime of manhood, being but twenty-three years 
of age j yet he had already shown traits of character that marked him 
among the most promising of the young officers of our little army. He is 
represented to have been a model of manly beauty, possessing a mind that 
harmonised with his symmetry of person. He was singularly happy in 
all his associations with his brother officers. He was the idol of the do- 
mestic circle, and the pride of his parents. His death carried sorrow into 
the happiest of family circles, and destroyed well-cherished hopes, that 
built bright scenes of glory for the warm-hearted and patriotic soldier. 

Lieut. Chadbourne was a graduate of West Point, and had been two 
years in the army. Upon the receipt of the news of his death, at Fort 
Niagara, the United States officers there stationed, held a meeting, ex- 
pressive of their sorrow at his death, and of their admiration of him as a 
man and a soldier. 

LIEUT. Z. M. P. INGE, 

SECOND DRAGOONS. 

Lieut. Z. M. P. Inge, who fell at the head of his command, in the bril- 
liant charge made by the Second Dragoons on the enemy's batteries, in 



196 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the battle of the 9th, was a native of Alabama. He graduated at West 
Point in the year 1838, and immediately after entered the service as se- 
cond lieutenant of dragoons. He received his commission of first lieute- 
nant February 1st, 1841. Lieut. Inge is spoken of by his brother officers 
in terms of the greatest affection, and was greatly beloved for the quali- 
ties of his heart, while the manner of his death ranks him among the 
bravest of soldiers. 



LIEUT. R. E. COCHRANE, 

FOURTH INFANTRY. 

Lieut. Cochrane, who fell on the 9th from a charge of Mexican ca- 
valry, was appointed to the army from the state of Delaware. He was 
killed beyond Arista's head quarters, being among the advance of the 
troops. No soldier ever fell more gallantly. His loss was a severe blow 
to his regiment, and clouded the victory that rested upon their arms. 
The citizens of his native place have testified their admiration of his vir- 
tues, by having taken the proper measures to have his remains removed 
from the banks of the Rio Grande, to rest among the familiar scenes of 
his childhood. Lieut. Cochrane has left a young wife to mourn his loss; 
in her sorrow, she hears the praises of an admiring nation for the memory 
of her deceased husband. 



BATTLES ON THE RIO GRANDE. 
OFFICIAL REPORTS. 

Reports of General Taylor. 

Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 
Camp near Matamoros, May 16, 1846. 

Sir : — I have now the honor to submit a more detailed report of the 
action of the 8th instant. 

The main body of the Army of Occupation marched under my imme- 
diate orders from Point Isabel on the evening of the 7th of May, and 
bivouaced seven miles from that place. 

Our march was resumed the following morning. About noon, when 
oar advance of cavalry had reached the water-hole of "Palo Alto," the 
Mexican troops were reported in our front, and were soon discovered oc- 
cupying the road in force. I ordered a halt upon reaching the water, with 
a view to rest and refresh the men, and form deliberately our line of 
battle. The Mexican line was now clearly visible across the prairie, and 
about three-quarters of a mile distant. Their left, which was composed 
of a heavy force of cavalry, occupied the road, resting upon a thicket of 
chaparral, while masses of infantry were discovered in succession on the 
right, greatly outnumbering our own force. 

Our line of battle was now formed in the following order, commencing 
on the extreme right : Fifth Infantry, commanded by Lieut. Col. Mcintosh ; 
Major Ringgold's Artillery ; Third Infantry, commanded by Capt. L. M. 
Morris; two eighteen-pounders, commanded by Lieut. Churchill, Third 
Artillery; Fourth Infantry, commanded by Major G. W. Allen; the Third 
and Fourth regiments composed the Third brigade, under command of 
Lieut. Col. Garland, and all the above corps, together with two squadrons 
of dragoons, under Captains Ker and May, composed the right wing, under 
the orders of Col. Twiggs. The left was formed by the battalion of Artil- 
lery, commanded by Lieut. Col. Chiids, Capt. Duncan's Light Artillery, 
and the Eighth Infantry, under Capt. Montgomery, all forming the First 
brigade, under command of Lieut. Col. Belknap. The train was parked 
near the water, under direction of Captains Grossman and Myers, and 
.protected by Capt. Ker's squadron. 

197 



198 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

About 2 o'clock we took up the march by heads of columns in the di- 
rection of the enemy, the eighteen-pounder battery following the road. 
While the columns were advancing, Lieut. Blake, Topographical Engi- 
neers, volunteered a reconnoisance of the enemy's line, which was hand- 
somely performed, and resulted in the discovery of at least two batteries 
of artillery in the intervals of their cavalry and infantry. These batteries 
were soon opened upon us, when I ordered the columns halted and deployed 
into line, and the fire to be returned by all our artillery. The Eighth In- 
fantry, on our extreme left, was thrown back to secure that flank. The 
first fires of the enemy did little execution, while our eighteen-pounders, 
and Major Ringgold's artillery, soon dispersed the cavalry which formed 
his left. Capt. Duncan's battery, thrown forward in advance of the line, 
was doing good execution at this time. Capt. May's squadron was now 
detached to support that battery and the left of our position. The Mexi- 
can cavalry, with two pieces of artillery, were now reported to be moving 
through the chaparral to our right, to threaten that flank, or make a de- 
monstration against the train. The Fifth Infantry was immediately de- 
tached to check this movement, and, supported by Lieut. Ridgely, with a 
section of Major Ringgold's battery, and Capt. Walker's company of 
volunteers, effectually repulsed the enemy — the Fifth Infantry repelling a 
charge of lancers, and the artillery doing great execution in their ranks 
The Third Infantry was now detached to the right as a still further se- 
curity to that flank, yet threatened by the enemy. Major Ringgold, with 
the remaining section, kept up his fire from an advanced position, and 
was supported by the Fourth Infantry. 

The grass of the prairie had been accidentally fired by our artillery, 
and the volumes of smoke now partially concealed the armies from each 
other. As the enemy's left had evidently been driven back, and left the 
road free, and as the cannonade had been suspended, I ordered forward 
the eighteen-pounders on the road nearly to the position first occupied by 
the Mexican cavalry, and caused the First brigade to take up a new posi- 
tion, still on the left of the eighteen-pounder battery. The Fifth was ad- 
vanced from its former position, and occupied a point on the extreme right 
of the new line. The enemy made a change of position corresponding to 
our own, and after a suspension of nearly an hour the action was resumed, 

The fire of artillery was now most destructive j openings were constantly 
made through the enemy's ranks by our fire, and the constancy with 
which the Mexican infantry sustained this severe cannonade was a theme 
of universal remark and admiration. Capt. May's squadron was detached 
to make a demonstration on the left of the enemy's position, and suffered 
severely from the fire of artillery, to which it w T as for some time exposed. 



REPORTS OF GENERAL TAYLOR. 199 

The Fourth Infantry, which had been ordered to support the eighteen 
pounder battery, was exposed to a most galling fire of artillery, by which 
several men were killed, and Capt. Page dangerously wounded. The 
enemy's fire w r as directed against our eighteen-pounder battery, and the 
guns under Major Ringgold in its vicinity. The Major himself, while 
coolly directing the fire of his pieces, was struck by a cannon ball and 
mortally wounded. 

In the mean time the battalion of artillery under Lieut. Col. Childs had 
been brought up to support the artillery on our right. A strong demon- 
station of cavalry was now made by the enemy against this part of our 
line, and the column continued to advance under a severe fire from the 
eighteen-pounders. The battalion was instantly formed in square, and 
held ready to receive the charge of cavalry, but when the advancing 
squadrons were within close range, a deadly fire of canister from the 
eighteen-pounders dispersed them. A brisk fire of small arms was now 
opened upon the square, by which one officer (Lieut. Luther, Second Ar- 
tillery,) was slightly wounded; but a well-directed volley from the front 
of the square silenced all further firing from the enemy in this quarter. 
It was now nearly dark, and the action was closed on the right of our line, 
the enemy having been completely driven back from his position, and 
foiled in every attempt against our line. 

While the above was going forward on our right, and under my own 
eye, the enemy had made a serious attempt against the left of our line. 
Capt. Duncan instantly perceived the movement, and, by the bold and 
brilliant manoeuvring of his battery, completely repulsed several succes- 
sive efforts of the enemy to advance in force upon our left flank. Sup- 
ported in succession by the Eighth Infantry, and by Capt. Ker's squadron 
of dragoons, he gallantly held the enemy at bay, and finally drove him, 
with immense loss, from the field. The action here and along the whole 
line continued until dark, when the enemy retired into the chaparral, in 
rear of his position. Our army bivouaced on the ground it occupied. 
During the afternoon the train had been moved forward about half a mile, 
and was parked in rear of the new position. 

Our loss this day was nine killed, forty-four wounded, and two missing. 
Among the wounded w T ere Major Ringgold, who has since died, and Capt. 
Page dangerously wounded, Lieut. Luther slightly so. I annex a tabular 
statement of the casualties of the day. 

Our own force engaged is shown by the field report herewith to have 
been one hundred and seventy-seven officers, and two thousand one hun- 
dred and eleven men; aggregate two thousand two hundred and eighty- 
eight. The Mexican force, according to the statements of their own offi- 



200 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



cers taken prisoners in the affair of the 9th, was not less than six thousand 
regular troops, with ten pieces of artillery, and probably exceeded that 
number — the irregular force not known. Their loss was not less than two 
hundred killed, and four hundred wounded — probably greater. This es- 
timate is very moderate, and formed upon the number actually counted 
upon the field, and upon the reports of their own officers. 

As already reported in my first brief despatch, the conduct of our 
officers and men was every thing that could be desired. Exposed for 
hours to the severest trial — a cannonade of artillery — our troops displayed a 
coolness and constancy which gave me throughout the assurance of victory. 

I purposely deter the mention of individuals until my report of the 
action of the 9th, when I will endeavor to do justice to the many instances 
of distinguished conduct on both days. In the mean time I refer for more 
minute details to the reports of individual commanders. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, Washington. 



Field report of the corps composing the Army of Occupation, com- 
manded by Brevet Brig. Gen. Z. Taylor, on the Sth May, 1846. 



Corps. 



General staff, 

f Light Artillery, (Ringgold's) - 

J Second Dragoons, - 

1 Third brigade, (Third and Fourth regiments,) 

I Fifth Infantry, ------ 

First hri^ade I Li S ht Artillery, (Duncan's,) - 

rirsi UIl °*" G - \ Battalion of Artillery and Eighth Infantry, 



Right wing. 



Aggregate. 



177 



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m 

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53 



9 

50 

. 243 

611 

358 

49 

791 

2111 



20 
55 
262 
663 
3S0 
53 
855 



Head Quarters Army or Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, May 6, 1846. 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
W. W. S. Bliss, Assistant Adjutant General. 



REPORTS OF GENERAL TAYLOR. 



201 



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•202 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Fort Brown, Texas, May 17, 1846. 

Sir : In submitting a more minute report of the affair of '-'Resaca de la 
Palma,? 5 I have the honor to state, that early on the morning of the 9th 
instant, the enemy, who had encamped near the field of battle of the day 
previous, was discovered moving by his left flank, evidently in retreat, 
and perhaps at the same time to gain a new position on the road to Mata- 
moros, and there again resist our advance. 

I ordered the supply train to be strongly parked at its position, and left 
with it four pieces of artillery — the two eighteen-pounders, which had 
done such good service on the previous day, and two twelve-pounders 
which had not been in the action. The wounded officers and men were 
at the same time sent back to Point Isabel. I then moved forward with 
the columns to the edge of the chaparral or forest, which extends to the 
Rio Grande, a distance of seven miles. The light companies of the First 
brigade, under Capt. C. F. Smith, Second Artillery, and a select detach- 
ment of light troops, the whole under the command of Capt. McCall, Fourth 
Infantry, were thrown forward into the chaparral, to feel the enemy and 
ascertain his position. About 3 o'clock I received a report from the ad- 
vance, that the enemy was in position on the road, with at least two pieces 
of artillery. The command was immediately put in motion, and about 
4 o'clock I came up with Capt. McCall, who reported the enemy in force 
in our front, occupying a ravine which intersects the road, and is skirted 
by thickets of dense chaparral. Ridgely's battery, and the advance under 
Capt. McCall, were at once thrown forward on the road, and into the cha- 
parral on either side, while the Fifth Infantry, and one wing of the Fourth. 
was thrown into the forest on the left, and the Third and the other wing 
of the Fourth on the right of the road. These corps were employed as 
skirmishers to cover the battery and engage the Mexican infantry. Capt. 
McCall's command became at once engaged with the enemy, while the 
light artillery, though in a very exposed position, did great execution. The 
enemy had at least eight pieces of artillery, and maintained an incessant 
Are upon our advance. 

The action now became general; and although the enemy's infantry 
gave way before the steady fire and resistless progress of our own, yet his 
artillery was still in position to check our advance — several pieces occu- 
pying the pass across the ravine which he had chosen for his position. 
Perceiving that no decisive advantage could be gained until this artillery 
was silenced, I ordered Capt. May to charge the battery with his squadron 
of dragoons. This was gallantly and effectually executed : the enemy 



REPORTS OF GEN. TAYLOR. 203 

was driven from his guns, and Gen. La Vega, who remained alone at one 
of the batteries, was taken prisoner. The squadron, which suffered much 
in this charge, not being immediately supported by infantry, could not re- 
tain possession of the artillery taken, but it was completely silenced, In 
the mean time the Eighth Infantry had been ordered up, and had become 
warmly engaged on the right of the road. This regiment and a part of the 
Fifth were now ordered to charge the batteries, which was handsomely 
done, and the enemy entirely driven from his artillery and his position on 
the left of the road. 

The light companies of the First brigade, and the Third and Fourth re- 
giments of Infantry, had been deployed on the right of the road, when, at 
various points, they became briskly engaged with the enemy. A small 
party, under Capt. Buchanan and Lieutenants Wood and Hays, Fourth In- 
fantry, composed chiefly of men of that regiment, drove the enemy from 
a breastwork which he occupied, and captured a piece of artillery. An 
attempt to recover this piece was repulsed by Capt. Barbour's Third In- 
fantry. The enemy was at last completely driven from his position on the 
right of the road, and retreated precipitately, leaving baggage of every de- 
scription. The Fourth Infantry took possession of a camp where the head 
quarters of the Mexican general-in-chief were established. All his offi- 
cial correspondence was captured at this place. 

The Artillery battalion (excepting the flank companies) had been or- 
dered to guard the baggage train, which was parked some distance in 
rear. That battalion was now ordered up to pursue the enemy, and, with 
the Third Infantry, Capt. Ker's Dragoons, and Capt. Duncan's battery, fol- 
lowed him rapidly to the river, making a number of prisoners. Great 
numbers of the enemy were drowned in attempting to cross the river near 
the town. The corps last mentioned encamped near the river — the re- 
mainder of the army on the field of battle. 

The strength of our marching force on this day, as exhibited in the 
annexed field report, was one hundred and seventy-three officers, and two 
thousand and forty-nine men — aggregate, two thousand two hundred and 
twenty-two. The actual number engaged with the enemy did not exceed 
one thousand seven hundred. Our loss was three officers killed, thirty- 
six men killed, and seventy-one wounded. Among the officers killed, I 
have to report the loss of Lieut. Inge, Second Dragoons, who fell at the 
head of his platoon, while gallantly charging the enemy's battery; of 
Lieut. Cochrane, of the Fourth, and Lieut. Chadbourne, of the Eighth 
Infantry, who likewise met their death in the thickest of the fight. The 
officers wounded were Lieut. Col. Payne, inspector general ; Lieut. Dobbins, 
Third Infantry, serving with the light infantry advance, slightly; Lieut, 



204 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Col. Mcintosh, Fifth Infantry, severely, twice; Capt. Hooe, Fifth Infantry, 
severely, (right arm since amputated ;) Lieut. Fowler, Fifth Infantry, slight- 
ly; Capt. Montgomery, Eighth Infantry, slightly; Lieutenants Gates and 
Jordan, Eighth Infantry, severely, (each twice;) Lieutenants Selden, Mac- 
lay, Burbank, and Morris, Eighth Infantry, slightly. 

I have no accurate data from which to estimate the enemy's force on this 
day. He is known to have been reinforced after the action of the 8lh, both 
by cavalry and infantry, and no doubt to an extent at least equal to his loss 
on that day. It is probable that six thousand men were opposed to us, and in 
a position chosen by themselves, and strongly defended with artillery. The 
enemy's loss was very great. Nearly two hundred of his dead were buried 
by us on the days succeeding the battle. His loss, in killed and wounded 
and missing, in the two affairs of the 8th and 9th, is, I think, moderately 
estimated at one thousand men. 

Our victory has been decisive. A small force has overcome immense 
odds of the best troops that Mexico can furnish; veteran regiments per- 
fectly equipped and appointed. Eight pieces of artillery, several colors 
and standards, a great number of prisoners, including fourteen officers, 
and a large amount of baggage and public property, have fallen into our 
hands. 

The causes of victory are doubtless to be found in the superior quality 
of our officers and men. I have already, in former reports, paid a general 
tribute to the admirable conduct of the troops on both days. It now be- 
comes my duty, and I feel it to be one of great delicacy, to notice indivi- 
duals. In so extensive a field as that of the 8th, and in the dense cover 
where most of the action of the 9th was fought, I could not possibly be 
witness to more than a small portion of the operations of the various corps, 
and I must therefore depend upon the reports of subordinate commanders, 
which I respectfully enclose herewith. 

Col. Twiggs, the second in command, was particularly active on both 
days, in executing my orders, and directing the operations of the right 
wing. Lieut. Col. Mcintosh, commanding the Fifth Infantry; Lieut. Col. 
Garland, commanding the Third brigade ; Lieut. Col. Belknap, command- 
ing the First brigade; Lieut. Col. Childs, commanding the Artillery bat- 
talion ; Major Allen, Captains L. M. Morris and Montgomery, command- 
ing respectively the Fourth, Third, and Eighth regiments of Infantry, were 
zealous in the performance of their duties, and gave examples to their 
commands of cool and fearless conduct. Lieut. Col. Mcintosh repulsed 
with his regiment a charge of lancers in the action of Palo Alto, and shared 
with it in the honors and dangers of the following day, being twice severely 
wounded. The command of the Fifth Infantry then devolved upon Major 



REPORTS OF GEN. TAYLOR. 205 

Stamford, who conducted it with zeal and ability to the close of the engage- 
ment. Lieut. Col. Belknap headed a charge of the Eighth Infantry, which 
resulted in driving the enemy from his guns, and leaving us in possession 
of that part of the field. 

Capt. Duncan and Lieut. Ridgely deserve special notice for the gallant 
and efficient manner in which they manoeuvred and served their batteries. 
The impression made by Capt. Duncan's battery upon the extreme right 
of the enemy's line, at the affair of Palo Alto, contributed largely to the 
result of the day; while the terrible fire kept up by Lieut. Ridgely, - in the 
affair of the 9th, inflicted heavy losses upon the enemy. The eighteen- 
pounder battery, which played a conspicuous part in the action of the 8th, 
was admirably served by Lieut. Churchill, Third Artillery, assisted by Lieut. 
Wood, Topographical Engineers. The charge of cavalry against the enemy's 
batteries on the 9th, was gallantly led by Capt. May, and had complete 
success. Capt. McCall, Fourth Infantry, rendered distinguished service 
with the advanced corps under his orders. Its loss in killed and wounded, 
will show how closely it was engaged. I may take this occasion to say, 
that in two former instances, Capt. McCall has rendered valuable service as 
a partisan officer. In this connexion, I would mention the services of Capt. 
Walker, of the Texas Rangers, who was in both affairs with his company, 
and who has performed very meritorious services as a spy and partisan. 
I must beg leave to refer to the reports of subordinate commanders for the 
names of many officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates, who were 
distinguished by good conduct on both days. Instances of individual gal- 
lantry and personal conflict with the enemy, were not wanting in the affair 
of the 9th, but cannot find place in a general report. The officers serving 
in the staffs of the different commanders are particularly mentioned by 
them. 

I derived efficient aid on both days, from all the officers of my staff. 
Capt. Bliss, assistant adjutant general; Lieut. Col. Payne, inspector general ; 
Lieut. Eaton, A.D.C.; Capt. Waggaman, commissary of subsistence; Lieut. 
Scarritt, Engineers, and Lieutenants Blake and Meade, Topographical 
Engineers, promptly conveyed my orders to every part of the field. Lieut. 
Col. Payne was wounded in the affair of the 9th, and I have already had 
occasion to report the melancholy death of Lieut. Blake, by accident, in 
the interval between the two engagements. 

Major Craig and Lieut. Brereton, of the ordnance department, were 
actively engaged in their appropriate duties, and Surgeon Craig, medical 
director, superintended in person the arduous service of the field hospitals. 
I take this occasion to mention generally the devotion to duty of the me- 
dical staff of the army, who have been untiring in their exertions, both in 



206 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



ihe field and in the hospitals, to alleviate the sufferings of the wounded 
of both armies. Captains Crossman and Myers, of the quartermaster's 
department, who had charge of the heavy supply train at both engage- 
ments, conducted it in a most satisfactory manner, and finally brought it 
up, without the smallest loss, to its destination. 

I enclose an inventory of the Mexican property captured on the field, 
and also a sketch of the field of " Resaca de la Palma," and of the route 
from Point Isabel, made by my aid-de-camp, Lieut. Eaton. 

One regimental color (battalion of Tampico) and many standards and 
guidons of cavalry were taken at the affair of the 9th. I would be pleased 
to receive your instructions as to the disposition to be made of these tro- 
phies j whether they shall be sent to Washington, &c. 

I am. very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Field report of the corps composing the Army of Occupation, com- 
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Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, May 16, 1846. 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A. } commanding. 
W. W. S. Bliss, Assistant Adjutant General 



REPORTS OF GEN. TAYLOR. 



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203 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 
No. 59. Matamoros, July 3d, 1846. 

Sir: It has been brought to ray notice that an omission occurred in my 
detailed report of the action of the 9th, which I beg leave to supply in the 
following words, to follow immediately after the mention of Lieut. Col. 
Mcintosh's being "twice severely wounded :" 

The command of the Fifth Infantry then devolved upon Major Stamford, 
who conducted it with zeal and ability to the close of the engagement. 

I need hardly say that this omission was entirely accidental, and I beg, 
as an act of justice to Major Staniford, as well as myself, that the above 
paragraph may be inserted in the original report, and may receive the 
same publicity. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 
[Signed] Z. TAYLOR, 

Brevet Major General. 

The Adjutant General of the Army. 



Report of Col. Twiggs. 

Head Quarters, Right Wing, Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, May 11, 1846. 

Sir: I have the honor to make the following report of the transactions 
of the different corps of the right wing of the army under my command, 
during the actions with the enemy, on the 8th and 9th instant. About 2£ 
P. M., on the 8th, we found ourselves at the Palo Alto, within one mile of 
the chaparral which borders the Rio Grande, and nine miles from the river. 
My command being composed of Major Ringgold's company of Light Artil- 
lery, two squadrons of dragoons, the Fifth Infantry, and the Third and 
Fourth Infantry, composing the Third brigade. 

The enemy, at the distance of about half a mile, opened their batteries 
on their right, which, being immediately responded to by our two eighteen- 
pounders, in charge of Lieut. Churchill, brought on the action of the 8th 
instant. Major Ringgold's battery was ordered to the right and front of 
the eighteen-pounders, at a distance of about seven hundred yards from 
the enemy, when the battery was opened with great effect, as was shown 
the next day, by the number of the enemy's dead found along his line. 
The infantry, in the mean time, was formed in rear of the artillery, re- 
ceiving with the greatest possible coolness the enemy's fire, and only 
anxious for the order to rush in and participate actively in the affair. 

A regiment of the enemy's lancers was observed to move to our right, 



REPORT OF COL. TWIGGS. 209 

apparently to gain possession of our wagon train, a few hundred yards in 
rear. The Fifth Infantry and two pieces of Major Ringgold's artillery, 
under the command of Lieut. R. Ridgely, were ordered to check this 
movement. Having gained ground to the right, some four or five hundred 
yards, the Fifth was formed in square to receive a charge from the lancers, 
who advanced to within fifty yards, when the opposing side of the square 
fired into and repulsed them, having received in the mean time several 
irregular discharges from the enemy. The lancers re-formed, and contin- 
ued their movement to get in rear of our right flank, when I ordered the 
Third to move to the right and rear, around a pond of water, and prevent 
their progress in that direction. Seeing their movement frustrated in this 
point, the lancers commenced a retreat in good order, marching apparently 
by squadrons, when First Lieut. R. Ridgely, of Major Ringgold's battery, 
assisted by Brevet Second Lieut. French, opened a fire on them, and scat- 
tered them in all directions. In this affair, the enemy lost some twenty- 
eight or thirty men. This portion of the right wing served in about this 
position until the close of the action. In the mean time, Major Ringgold, 
with the remaining two pieces of his battery, continued to play on the 
enemy with great success. The gallant major was mortally wounded by 
a cannon ball towards the close of the action, and his horse shot under 
him at the same time. The army and the country will long deplore the 
loss of so brave and accomplished an officer. 

The second squadron of dragoons, commanded by Capt. May, who, 
during the day, was under the immediate orders of the general command- 
ing, being ordered to turn, if possible, the left flank of the enemy, the 
Fourth Infantry was ordered to support him. Having advanced in our 
right and front some four hundred yards, under a very severe fire from 
two of the enemy's batteries, it was found the force he had to oppose was 
eight or nine hundred cavalry; he retired agreeably to his orders, and the 
Fourth Infantry was accordingly withdrawn. In this operation, Capt. May's 
squadron had five men wounded and six horses killed, and the Fourth 
Infantry one man killed, one officer (Capt. Page) mortally, and one man 
severely wounded. Night coming on, the right wing took position in front 
of the wagon train, and slept on their arms on the ground first occupied 
by the enemy. The perfect coolness of Lieut. Ridgely, and the great pre- 
cision with which he fired his pieces, whilst acting in concert with the 
Fifth, deserves notice, the last and most effective shot he having aimed 
himself. 

On the morning of the 9th, some of the enemy being discovered in the 
edge of the chaparral, we advanced the Fifth Infantry on the right, with 
the second squadron of dragoons in front, Major Ringgold's battery, com- 

14 



210 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

manded by Lieut. Ridgely, on the left of the Fifth, and the Third brigade 
on its left. On advancing, the enemy having retired, we entered the cha- 
parral, and approached to within eight hundred yards of Resaca de la Palma, 
where the enemy had taken position for fight. The advance guard having 
kept up a fire till our arrival, Lieut. Ridgely was ordered in front of the 
Fifth with his battery, and having advanced cautiously to within about 
lour hundred yards of their battery in the road, the enemy opened on him 
with grape. Lieut. Ridgely pushed forward rapidly about one hundred 
yards further, and returned their fire with great spirit and success, ad- 
vancing on them whenever their fire slackened. At times the two batte- 
ries were firing canister at each other, when not more than one hundred 
yards apart. Having advanced in this manner about five hundred yards. 
Captain May's squadron was ordered to charge the enemy's guns. Dash- 
ing forward in columns of fours, (the main road admitting of no other for- 
mation,) the squadron charged across the ravine through seven of the 
enemy's pieces, driving the gunners from them; Capt. May, with Lieu- 
tenants Inge, Stevens, and Sackett, and the first and second platoons of 
the squadron charging the guns in the road and on the right of it : Capt. 
Graham, accompanied by Lieutenants Winship and Pleasanton, with the 
third and fourth platoons, leading the charge against the pieces on the left 
of the road in the ravine. Capt. May having charged through the pieces 
in the road, rallied some six men, and charged again at some of the gun- 
ners who had regained their pieces, drove them ofT, and took General Vega 
prisoner. In the charge, Lieut. Inge fell at the head of his platoon, whilst 
leading it. on gallantly, having passed through their batteries. Corporal 
McCauley was taken prisoner, nine privates and eighteen horses were 
killed, Sergeant Maley, nine privates, and ten horses wounded. 

The Fourth Infantry, under the command of Brevet Major Allen, the 
Fifth, commanded by Lieut. Col. Mcintosh, and the Third, commanded by 
Capt. L. N. Morris, retained possession of the enemy's artillery, repulsing 
at different times largely superior parties brought to bear against them, 
and finally brought off the pieces, making several prisoners of war. After 
the unsurpassed, if not unequalled, charge of Capt. May's squadron, the 
enemy was unable to fire a piece. In this affair, Lieut. Inge, Second Dra- 
goons, and Lieut. Cochrane, Fourth Infantry, were killed: and Lieut. Col. 
Mcintosh, Capt. Hooe, and Lieut. Dobbins were wounded. I would respect- 
fully call the attention of the commanding general to the gallant conduct of 
Col. Mcintosh, Fifth, and Col. Garland, Fourth Infantry, (commanding the 
Third brigade :) Lieutenants Ridgely, Shover, and French, Third Artillery ; 
Captains May and Graham, Lieutenants Winship, Stevens, Pleasanton. and 
Sackett. Second Dragoons; and Capt. Buchanan, Lieutenants Hays and 



REPORT OF COL. GARLAND. 211 

Wood. Fourth Infantry, &c. ; the latter two having captured a piece of ar- 
tillery, defended by one hundred and fifty or two hundred, with but a few 
men. 

The enemy having been routed with great loss, this day's action closed 
with much honor to the American army, spreading terror amongst the 
Mexican people. In this action every officer and man performed his duty 
most gallantly. 

Capt. Arnold and Lieut. McDonald, Second Dragoons, my aids on the 
8th and 9th instant, performed the several duties assigned them with 
promptness, coolness, and courage. They accompanied me during the 
whole of the affairs, except when detached carrying orders. The detailed 
account of the commanders of each regiment and corps is herewith sub- 
mitted. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

D. E. TWIGGS, 
Col. Second Dragoons, commanding Right Wing A. 0. 

Capt. W. W. S. Bliss, 

Assistant Adft. Gen., Army of Occupation, Camp near Matamoros. 



Report of Col Garland. 

Battle Field, near Matamoros, 
Head Quarters Third Brigade, May 11, 1846. 

Colonel : — I have the honor to enclose herewith, for the information 
of the commanding general, the reports of Capt. Lewis Morris, of the 
Third, and Brevet Major Allen, of the Fourth Infantry, giving a detailed 
account of the services performed by the regiments under their respective 
commands in the actions which took place on the 8th and 9th instant. 

I have only this moment received these reports, and, as I am under or- 
ders to march immediately with my brigade, have not a moment to add 
any thing to them if I were disposed to do so. Both of these regimental 
commanders used every effort to meet the enemy and to overcome him. 
It was pleasing to me to witness the gallant rivalry between these two 
corps; they shared liberally in the dangers and exertions which brought 
about our signal success. I witnessed, with great satisfaction, in a dense 
chaparral, Capt. Morrison, of the Fourth, overcoming obstacles which I 
believed insurmountable, in order to reach the enemy. 

Of Capt. McCall, Fourth Infantry, whose merits are fully appreciated 
by the commanding general, I can make no remark, as he was detached 



212 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

with a separate command under the special instructions of the general 
himself. 

It gives me great pleasure to speak in terms of high approbation of the 
efficient services of my principal staff-officer, Lieut. Beaman, of the Fourth 
Infantry ; Brigade Major Lieut. G. 0. Haller, A. C. S., also rendered me 
valuable service during the two actions. 
Most respectfully, I am, Colonel, your obedient servant, 

JOHN GARLAND, 
Lieut. Col. Fourth Infantry, commanding Third Brigade, 
Col. D. E. Twiggs, 

Second Dragoons, commanding Right Wing Army of Occupation. 



Report of Major Alien. 

Head Quarters Fourth Infantry, 

Camp on the Battle Field, May 10, 1846. 
Sir : — I have the honor to report for the information of the colonel com- 
manding the Third brigade, that, in obedience to orders received yesterday, 
when the firing commenced, the Fourth Infantry deployed as skirmishers 
on the right and left of the road, and advanced towards the point where 
the firing seemed most lively. After rushing on for some short distance, 
it was discovered that the enemy were pouring in a heavy fire of grape 
and musketry from a small breastwork just in front, defended by one piece 
of artillery, and about one hundred and fifty or two hundred men. Capt. 
Buchanan, being nearest this point, and finding himself the senior officer, 
collected some twenty-five or thirty men of the regiment, portions of his 
own company, and companies D, H, and K, together with Lieutenants 
Hays and Woods, charged the works, completely routed the enemy, and 
captured the piece. The regiment still continued to move forward, until 
it emerged from the thicket into the main camp of the enemy, containing 
the head quarters of the commanding general of the Mexican army, their 
ammunition, some three or four hundred mules, saddles, and every variety 
of camp equipage. I regret extremely to announce the death of First 
Lieut. R. E. Cochrane, of my regiment, who fell at the very edge of the 
camp, whilst gallantly leading his men into it. The nature of the cha- 
parral was such, that, in going through it, it very frequently became un- 
avoidably necessary to divide the regiment into several detachments, each 
of which met the enemy at different points, and always put him to flight. 
I cannot pass over in silence the brave and distinguished behaviour of 
Lieutenants Hays and Woods, as well as that of Sergeant Major Maloney, 



REPORT OF CAPT. BUCHANAN. 213 

and Corporals Farran and McFarlin, who. whilst their gallant commander, 
Capt. Buchanan, was briskly engaged in driving back the infantry, rushed 
forward with six men to the cannon, and whilst Lieut. Hays was endea- 
voring to dispatch one of the mules attached to it, Lieut. Woods sprung 
to the handspikes, turned the piece in such a direction as to lock one of 
the wheels against a tree, and thereby prevented its being moved, and 
succeeded in defending and securing it. The conduct of the officers and 
men on this day, as well as on the 8th, reflects the highest credit on the 
American soldier. On the 8th, Capt. Page was severely, if not mortally 
wounded, and one man killed, and one wounded. On the 9th, First Lieut. 
R. E. Cochrane and three men were killed ; Lieutenants Wallen and Hays 
and six men wounded — Lieutenants Wallen and Hays very slightly. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

GEO. W. ALLEN, 
Brevet Major, commanding Fourth Infantry. 
To Lieut. Col. J. Garland, 

Commanding Third Brigade. 
P. S. For further particulars, you are referred to the accompanying 
report of Capt. Buchanan. G. W. A. 

I have the greatest pleasure in expressing my warmest thanks to the 
Adjutant of the Fourth Infantry, Lieut. A. Haskins, for his coolness and 
gallantry, and efficient assistance throughout the whole of both affairs. 

GEO. W- ALLEN, 
Brevet Major., commanding Fourth Infantry. 



Report of Capt. Robt. C. Buchanan. 

Camp on the Battle Field, May 10, 1846. 
Sir : — In compliance with your request, I have the honor to report that, 
in the deployment of the Fourth Infantry, I found myself in command 
of companies B, D, and K, on the left of the road, as we entered, and 
having been ordered to cross to the right and advance, did so. After 
crossing the pond, I had with me Lieutenants Hays and Woods, and about 
twenty men of different regiments, mostly, however, of the Fourth. Upon 
deploying my men on the crest of the hill, I discovered one of the enemy's 
pieces about fifty yards in my front, which was defended by about one 
hundred and fifty infantry. I charged and took the piece, and attempted 
to spike it, but, not being able to do so, took it back to a place of safety. 
The enemy had a breastwork in my rear, and opened a heavy fire on me, 



214 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

when, with about ten men, I dislodged him, and drove him across the 
road. Too much credit cannot be given to Lieutenants Hays and Woods, 
of the Fourth. They were among the very first to reach the piece, and to 
them belongs the credit of its capture. Whilst I was engaged in driving 
the enemy from his breastwork, these officers, with their men, repulsed a 
party that charged them in order to recapture the piece. I cannot refrain 
from calling your attention to Sergeant Major Maloney, and Corporal Far- 
rail, who behaved with remarkable coolness and gallantry. Every body 
did his duty nobly, as becomes American soldiers. 
I have the honor to be your obedient servant, 

ROBERT C. BUCHANAN, 

Capt. Fourth Infantry. 
To Major G. W. Allen, 

Commanding Fourth Infantry. 



Report of Capt. L. JV. Morris. 

Head Quarters Third Infantry, 
Camp on Battle Field, near Matamoros, May 10, 1846, 
Sir : — I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your order, imme- 
diately before the battle of the 9th instant, at this place, I deployed the 
Third Infantry as skirmishers on the right of the road, the left resting on 
the road ; the regiment advanced rapidly to the front : and, soon after the 
firing commenced, I found my command so far advanced, as to be exposed 
to a cross fire from our own and the enemy's batteries, and, in conse- 
quence of the very dense chaparral, the regiment became very much 
scattered. I passed an order down the line for the officers to collect all 
the men they could, and bring them into the engagement, which was 
altogether on the left of the road. I returned myself with all the men I 
could collect, turned Duncan's battery, and joined in the action on the left 
flank, with Lieutenants Johns, Bee, Williamson, and Hatch, Third In- 
fantry; Lieut, and Adjutant Irons passed into the right with a few men, 
and joined a party under Capt. McCall. The officers near me on this oc- 
casion did all that could be desired of gallant soldiers : they directed the 
men with coolness, judgment, and activity : the soldiers too, about thirty 
in the detachment, did themselves great credit. I regret that I cannot 
give a more full account of what the regiment accomplished. As stated 
before, it became scattered, and each officer was compelled to act inde- 
pendently. Some few have to regret that they could not find their way 
out of the chaparral in time to join in the battle. Capt. Barbour did good 



REPORT OF MAJOR STANIFORD. 215 

service with his detachment, by driving back a body of cavalry attempting 
to recover a piece of artillery, taken by some officers and men of the 
Fourth Infantry. I must not omit to notice in this report the conduct of 
Corpora] O'Sullivan, of company E, Third Infantry, who fired at a body 
of the enemy, and immediately rushed in upon them, and seized a lieu- 
tenant by the collar, disarmed him, and delivered him a prisoner to Lieut. 
Graham. He afterwards went with a party under Sergeant Kendall, of F 
company, Third Infantry, captured a gun from the enemy, rolled it out 
into the road, and turned it over to an officer of the Fifth Infantry. There 
were many other acts of individual daring ; but, where all behaved well, 
it is deemed unnecessary to multiply instances. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

L. N. MORRIS, 
Capt. Third Infantry, commanding Regiment. 

Lieut, Col. J. Garland, 

Commanding Third Brigade Army of Occupation. 



Report of Major T. Stamford. 

Head Quarters Fifth Infantry, 
Camp on the Field of Battle, May 10, 1846. 
Sir : — In obedience to your orders, I have the honor to report that, in 
the action of Palo Alto, on the 8th instant, the Fifth Infantry was placed 
on the extreme right of our line. After sustaining the cannonade of the 
enemy for about three-quarters of an hour, the regiment was ordered to 
turn the left flank of the enemy, and was detached for that purpose, ad- 
vancing nearly half a mile to the right and front ; the cavalry of the Mexi- 
cans, with two pieces of artillery in view, extending themselves, apparently 
for the purpose of outflanking us. On the near approach of the enemy's 
cavalry, the regiment was thrown into square, with Capt. Walker, of the 
Texas Rangers, and twenty mounted men on our right. The enemy com- 
menced an irregular fire upon our square, as they advanced, wounding 
three or four of our men, and continued to do so until within about fifty 
yards, when our fire was delivered from one front of the square, killing 
several men and horses, and causing the enemy to retire. Our fire was 
followed by the rifles of the mounted men. At this moment Lieut. Ridgely, 
with two pieces of his battery, came to our support, and poured in a de- 
structive fire of grape and canister on the enemy, now in full retreat 
towards his right. The regiment remained on this ground for about half 
an hour, when we were ordered to take position on the right of the new 



216 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

line, which had been formed by throwing forward our right; the enemy 
having changed his front nearly perpendicular to his first line. Here we 
received a severe fire from the enemy's batteries, wounding a corporal of 
the color company, and the color sergeant slightly. As it was now near 
night, we were ordered up for the protection of the train; the cannonading 
from both sides ceasing at dark. 

In the battle of the 9th, the Fifth being in advance, and the enemy be- 
ing discovered in front, the regiment was ordered into the chaparral on the 
left of the road, and directed to advance as skirmishers, and push for the 
enemy. The chaparral at first was dense, and almost impassable ; con- 
sequently the regiment became much separated and extended, rendering- 
it impossible to advance with much regularity. A severe cannonading 
from both sides now began, mingled with a tremendous fire of musketry. 
In a few moments the order was given to charge the enemy's batteries, 
which was promptly done by cavalry and infantry, and the enemy's guns 
were all captured. In this brilliant exploit the Fifth bore a conspicuous 
part, a portion of the regiment successfully resisting the attempt of the 
enemy to recapture those guns on the right of his battery; the remainder 
of the regiment being extended towards the right, and mingling in the se- 
vere and close engagement which was there going on, and was so glo- 
riously terminated. 

During the action of this day, Lieut. Col. Mcintosh, and Capt. Hooe 
were severely, and Lieut. Fowler slightly wounded; loss of the rank and 
file, nine killed and twenty-five wounded, many of them severely. 

In conclusion. I will only add, that all, both officers and men, did their 
duty in a most gallant manner, determined to conquer the enemy or perish 
in the conflict. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

T. STANIFORD, 
Major Fifth Infantry, commanding Regiment. 

Col. D. E. Twiggs, 

Commanding Right Wing Army of Occupation. 



Report of Lieut. Ridgely. 

Camp near Matamoros, May 10, 1846. 
Sir : — In compliance with your directions I have the honor to report that 
the company which I now have the honor to command, took up its posi- 
tion in the line of battle about 3 o'clock, P. M., on the afternoon of the 
8th, at a distance of about eight hundred yards from the enemy's line. 



REPORT OF LIEUT. RIDGELY. 217 

After receiving a few rounds of artillery, we advanced about a hundred 
yards, where we opened our battery with considerable execution, as 
proven the next day ; but in consequence of their making a flank move- 
ment to our right, I was detached with two pieces to operate with the 
Fifth Infantry, who had been sent forward to oppose the movement. My 
section had already lost one man and two horses badly wounded. As I 
was taking position on the right of the Fifth, who were in square, they 
fired a volley from one of its faces on the enemy, whose cavalry had 
charged. I at once unlimbered and commenced firing. Very shortly I 
saw their artillery and cavalry, which latter was in large force, retiring. 
I am happy to state our fire proved effective, and the movement was frus- 
trated. Brevet Second Lieut. French had the immediate charge of one 
of the pieces. We continued changing position from point to point until 
dark, when we encamped. I then learned that Brevet Major Ringgold, 
who had been with the other section, had been badly wounded. The 
section was brought up by Lieut. Shover, who had kept it actively em- 
ployed during the entire afternoon. 

The following morning, about noon, I took my position in the rear of the 
Fifth Infantry, on our way to Matamoros, marching in columns of sections 
whenever practicable. After having advanced about five miles, I was or- 
dered to the front with my battery, and was there informed the enemy 
were immediately in our front, occupying the road with their artillery. 
Capt. Walker, of the Texas Rangers, was sent to point out to me their exact 
position. After moving very cautiously for a short distance. I discovered 
them about four hundred yards in advance, in the road, and almost in- 
stantly their artillery opened. I moved rapidly to the front for about a 
hundred yards and returned their fire, which was kept up very spiritedly 
on both sides for some time, their grape-shot passing through our battery 
in every direction. So soon as it slackened I limbered up, and moved 
rapidly forward, never unlimbering unless seeing them in front, or per- 
ceiving from the fire of their infantry they were on my flanks. Frequently 
the several pieces fired canister on them when not over a hundred or hun- 
dred and fifty yards. After having advanced in this manner for about five 
hundred yards, Capt. May, Second Dragoons, rode up and said, "Where 
are they ? I am going to charge." I gave them a volley, and he most 
gallantly dashed forward in " column of fours" at the head of his squad- 
ron. I followed as quickly as possible, at a gallop, only halting when I 
came upon the edge of the ravine, where I found three pieces of artillery, 
but no cannoniers ; however, their infantry poured into me a most galling 
fire at from twenty-five to fifty paces; and here ensued a most desperate 
struggle j but our infantry coming up, they were completely routed. Their 



218 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

cavalry coming so near that I once cut at them with my sabre, I did not 
advance as rapidly as I desired, as I perceived I was not, at times, sup- 
ported by the infantry, it being impossible for them to get through the 
chaparral. 

I cannot, sir, speak in too high terms of the gallantry and coolness of 
my officers, and the behaviour of my non-commissioned officers and men 
generally: and respectfully beg leave to call the attention of higher autho- 
rities to the fact, that the officers during the greater portion of the engage- 
ment, and always when closely pressed, had to perform the duties of not 
only one, but two cannoniers, handling their own shot and firing their own 
pieces, in consequence of the very limited number of men. 

In conclusion, sir, I am proud to stale, that until the enemy's artillery 
was taken and they completely routed, no other artillery was required, or 
at least used, but the battery I have the honor to command. 

I am, sir ; very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

RANDOLPH RIDGELY, 
First Lieut. Third Artillery, commanding Light Company C. 

CASUALTIES. 

Wounded. — 1 brevet major on the 8th. 1 sergeant, 3 privates. 

Killed. — 1 private on the 8lh. 

Two horses wounded on the 8th, (since dead.) 1 horse on the 8th, (aban- 
doned.) 5 horses very severely, (unserviceable,) on the 9th. 6 horses 
not very severely, on the 9th. 



Report of Capt. May. 

Dragoon Camp, Resaca de la Palma, 

On the Battle Ground, May 10, 1846. 

Sir : — Having been detached from the head quarters of my regiment 
with my squadron, and acting under the immediate orders of the com- 
manding general during the actions of the 8th and 9th instant, it becomes 
my duty to report the services which the squadron I had the honor to 
command rendered during those actions. 

You are aware that my first orders on the 8th were to strengthen the 
left flank of the army, and sustain Lieut. Duncan's battery : in this posi- 
tion I lost four horses killed and two wounded. 

About half an hour before sunset I received orders to proceed to the 
enemy's left flank and drive in his cavalry, In execution of these orders, 
and while passing the general and his staff, the enemy concentrated the 



REPORT OF CAPT. MAY. 219 

fire from their batteries upon us ; killing six of my horses, and wounding 
five men. I succeeded in gaining a position on the enemy's left with a 
view of charging his cavalry, but found him in such force as to render 
ineffectual a charge from my small command, and therefore returned, in 
obedience to my instructions, to my first position, where I remained until 
the close of the action, which terminated very shortly afterwards. Thus 
ended the service of my squadron on the 8th instant. 

On the morning of the 9th, my squadron was actively employed in re- 
connoitering the chaparral in advance of the field of the 8th, and on the 
advance of the army I took my position as the advance guard. When 
about half a mile from the position which the enemy were reported to 
have taken, I was ordered to halt and allow the artillery and infantry to 
pass, and await further orders. I remained in this position about three- 
quarters of an hour, when I received orders to report with my squadron 
to the general. I did so, and w T as ordered by the general to charge the 
enemy's batteries, and drive them from their pieces, which was rapidly 
executed, with the loss of Lieut. Inge, seven privates, and eighteen horses 
killed, and Sergeant Maley, nine privates, and ten horses wounded. Lieut. 
Sackett and Sergeant Story, in the front by my side, had their horses killed 
under them, and Lieut. Inge was gallantly leading his platoon when he 
fell. We charged entirely through the enemy's batteries of seven pieces 
— Capt. Graham, accompanied by Lieutenants Winship and Pleasanton, 
leading the charge against the pieces on the left of the road, and myself, 
accompanied by Lieutenants Inge, Stevens, and Sackett, those on the direct 
road, and gained the rising ground on the opposite side of the ravine. The 
charge was made under a heavy fire of the enemy's batteries, which ac- 
counts for my great loss. After gaining the rising ground in the rear, I 
could rally but six men, and with these I charged their gunners, who had 
regained their pieces, drove them off, and took prisoner Gen. Vega, whom 
I found gallantly fighting in person at his battery. I ordered him to sur- 
render, and on recognising me as an officer he handed me his sword. 

I brought him under a heavy fire of their infantry to our lines, accom- 
panied by Lieut. Stevens and a sergeant of my squadron. I then directed 
Lieut. Stevens to conduct him in safety to our rear, and presented his sword 
to the commanding general. 

From this time until the enemy were routed, I was engaged in collect- 
ing my men, who had become scattered in our lines. I succeeded in as- 
sembling half of my squadron, and joined the army in pursuit of the ene- 
my, until he crossed the Rio Grande, from which I returned to camp. 

I cannot speak in terms of sufficient praise of the steadiness and gal- 
lantry of the officers and men of my command. They all behaved with 



220 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

that spirit of courage and noble daring which distinguished the whole 
army in this memorable action, and achieved the most brilliant victory of 
the age. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

C. A. MAY, 
Capt. Second Dragoons., commanding Second squadron. 
Lieut. McDonald, Adjutant Second Dragoons. 



Report of Lieut. Col. Belknap to Gen. Taylor. 
Head Quarters First Brigade, 

Camp near Matamoros, May 15, 1846. 

Sir : — In submitting an official report of the operations of the First bri- 
gade in the actions of the 8th and 9th of May. at Palo Alto and Resaca de 
la Palma, I feel a degree of delicacy in the task from my humble rank in 
comparison with the importance and magnitude of my command, and lest 
I shall be unable to do full justice to the admirable conduct of the officers 
and men who served under my orders. 

On first meeting the enemy I received your order to form on the left, 
with instructions to move into the chaparral and allow the men to refresh 
themselves by getting water. Perceiving in a few moments that the 
enemy were advancing, and not knowing precisely, being on the left of 
the line, where water was to be obtained. I directed the men to remain in 
the ranks. The enemy shortly after having halted, and your instructions 
for the refreshment of the men having been repeated, they proceeded to 
get water, and immediately fell in prepared and eager for action. The 
brigade was then ordered to advance in column on the left of the army, 
the battalion of artillery, under command of Lieut. Col. Childs, on the 
right, the Eighth regiment of Infantry, commanded by Capt. Montgomery, 
on the left, and Capt. Duncan's battery in the centre. The army then 
having been ordered to advance, the brigade moved in this order until the 
enemy opened his batteries. When the brigade was halted, Capt. Dun- 
can's battery advanced about two hundred yards and commenced a most 
destructive fire upon the enemy. This disposition was maintained for 
about two hours, when the enemy's fire slackened, and finally ceased. 
Nothing could surpass the coolness and steadiness of the command while 
thus exposed to a galling fire, receiving as they did the heavy discharges 
of the enemy's well-aimed artillery without the power of defending them- 
selves. 

In a short time after the firing ceased the army was ordered to advance 



REPORT OF LIEUT. COL. BELKNAP. 221 

and take position somewhat nearer to the enemy; the battalion of artillery 
taking post in rear and to the right of the two eighteen-pounders, Capt. 
Duncan's artillery on their left, and the Eighth Infantry on the left and to 
the rear of his battery. At this moment Capt. Duncan, with his usual 
quickness of perception, discovered and communicated to me the fact that 
the enemy was moving the entire cavalry and infantry force of his right 
wing upon our train in rear of the left of our line of battle, and that his 
battery could produce a more destructive effect upon the enemy by taking 
position further to the left. I ordered him to proceed to the threatened 
point with all possible despatch, and hold the enemy in check till the 
Eighth Infantry could come up to his support. The battery dashed back 
to the left flank in full view of the enemy, and engaged him within point 
blank range of his small guns. So sudden and unexpected was this move- 
ment to the enemy, who a moment before saw this battery disappear in 
the opposite direction behind the smoke of the burning prairie, that his 
whole column of cavalry pulled up to a halt before a shot had been fired 
or even the guns unlimbered. A strong body of the enemy's infantry, 
supported by two squadrons of cavalry, debouched from the extreme right 
point of the chaparral, and moved steadily forward to the attack ; one sec- 
tion of the battery opened upon them with round shot, shells, and spheri- 
cal case, so well directed that the whole advance, horse and foot, fell back 
in disorder to the bushes ; the other section played in the mean time upon 
the masses of cavalry that had halted at the sight of the guns as before 
mentioned. Although these shot were well directed, and each made an 
opening through an entire squadron, this part of the enemy's line stood 
unshaken. 

The column of cavalry and infantry driven back in the chaparral by the 
other section, re-formed there and moved forward a second time to the 
attack with great regularity. After they advanced about one hundred 
yards from the chaparral, the section before ordered to drive them back 
again opened, and drove them with even greater success than before. 
They fell back pell-mell to the bushes and commenced their retreat ; their 
supporting cavalry abandoned them, rushed back upon the head of the 
columns that had before withstood our shot, and a flight commenced. 
Squadron after squadron took it up. and the entire right wing of the army 
was in full retreat. Both sections were now brought to bear upon the 
enemy's broken and flying columns, and a brisk and destructive fire kept 
up till they disappeared in the chaparral, or darkness put an end to the 
battle. 

When this battery first reached its position on the left, and before the 
infantry could arrive for its support, Capt. Ker, of the Second Dragoons, 



222 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

■who had been directed with his squadron to guard the baggage train, with 
a promptness and eagerness worthy of all praise, offered to repel any at- 
tempt of the enemy to assail the battery on its left. 

During the absence of the Eighth Infantry on the left, the commander 
of the artillery battalion vigorously and successfully repelled a desperate 
effort on the part of the enemy to carry the eighteen-pounders, by promptly 
forming square, and arresting the charge of cavalry. While in this posi- 
tion he received a fire from a line of the enemy's infantry, which was 
quickly returned. He then encamped on his own ground; at this time 
the brigade was re-united near the eighteen-pounder battery, and bivou- 
aced in front of the army. 

On the morning of the 9th we w T ere instructed to assume the same order 
and advance upon the enemy, he having in the night, and early in the 
morning, retired. The brigade advanced across the plain and took posi- 
tion in the chaparral, where we halted for several hours waiting instruc- 
tions, and burying in the mean time eleven of the enemy's dead that 
were there found terribly mangled. The army having been put in march 
in the afternoon, the brigade was ordered to halt, as a reserve, when within 
about a mile of the enemy's position. In a few minutes, the firing having 
commenced in front, I received orders to move up Duncan's battery, and 
one battalion of infantry ; the battery and the Eighth regiment were im- 
mediately put in motion, the latter in double quick time. 

On arriving at the scene of action, the Eighth regiment charged the 
enemy on the right of the road, and drove him from his position. At this 
moment, Capt. May, of the Second Dragoons, informed me that he had 
charged and carried one of the enemy's batteries, but, being unsupported, 
was unable to maintain it. I immediately ordered the Eighth Infantry to 
form in the road, when it was led to a charge upon the battery, a part of 
which had, as reported, been retaken by the enemy. This movement 
was executed with the greatest celerity, and the battery secured. The 
regiment then charged upon the ravine, and across the small prairie amidst 
a sheet of fire from the front and right, drove the supporting column be- 
fore it. destroying the enemy in vast numbers, they having maintained a 
most determined and obstinate resistance, until finally repulsed and driven 
from the field. Capt. Montgomery, with his regiment, pursued vigorously 
into the chaparral on the opposite side of the ravine, until, from the rapid 
flight of the enemy, further pursuit was useless. The conflict was short : 
the result shows the severity. 

At the head of the ravine, I met with Capt. McCall, Fourth Infantry, 
who, in command of the advance, had gallantly brought on the action, and 
poured a most destructive, and kept up an incessant fire upon the enemy. 



REPORT OF LIEUT. COL. BELKNAP. 223 

After the commencement of the action, on advancing with the Eighth 
Infantry and the battery of artillery, I ordered Lieut. Col. Childs to remain 
with his battalion as a reserve. It is due to Col. Childs to state, that he 
was desirous that his battalion should be selected to advance into the 
action instead of the Eighth regiment. He soon after received orders from 
the commanding general to advance. He obeyed, and rapidly pursued 
the enemy to the Rio Grande, where, having thrown out pickets, he cap- 
tured one captain, and about twelve privates during the enemy's flight. 

As soon as the enemy's batteries were carried, and his infantry began 
;o give ground, Capt. Duncan was ordered to cross the ravine, and take up 
a new position, that previously occupied rendering it impossible for him 
to assail the enemy without galling our own troops. This was done, and 
the enemy vigorously pursued, a few well-directed shots from our batte- 
ries driving him from position to position, till he reached the river. 

Where all have acted nobly it may seem improper to speak of indivi- 
duals, but I feel compelled to name the commanders of corps in the bri- 
gade. The commander of the battalion of artillery, Lieut. Col. Childs, 
needs no praise from me. His well-earned fame — won on many a field — 
is known to all; but his coolness and intrepidity in the battle of the 
8th, during the heavy cannonade of the enemy, the prompt manner in 
which he repulsed the charge upon the eighteen-pounder battery, and his 
hot pursuit of the enemy to the banks of the Rio Grande on the evening 
of the 9th, are new evidences of his zeal and soldiership which it gives 
me pleasure to record. 

Capt. Montgomery, in command of the Eighth Infantry, at Palo Alto 
manifested the utmost coolness during the cannonade of that day, when 
his horse was shot under him ; the celerity with which he moved to the 
support of the battery of artillery when threatened by the enemy's ca- 
valry, as well as his eagerness in getting into action on the 9th, in which 
he was wounded, and his vigor in pursuing the enemy, merits high com- 
mendation. 

I cannot too much commend the skill and judgment of Capt. Duncan 
on both fields. His quick eye detected at Palo Alto the threatening move- 
ment of the enemy on our left, whose advancing columns were arrested 
by his prompt action, and finally turned back by the rapid and skilful dis- 
charges from his fine battery. 

In the battle of the 9th, the Eighth regiment lost in Lieut. Chadbourne 
a promising young officer, who fell in the manful discharge of duty. 
Lieutenants Gates and Jordan were badly but not mortally wounded. The 
latter, when personally charging the enemy, being overpowered by num- 
bers, was relieved by Lieut. Lincoln, who slew with his own hand two of 



224 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the fiercest assailants. Lieutenants Selden, Burbank, Maclay, and Morris 
were wounded. Lieut. Luther, of the artillery battalion, was wounded by 
a musket ball in the action of the 8th. On this day, Lieut. Daniels, acting 
A. D. C, had his horse shot under him by a cannon ball. Capt. McKavett, 
of the Eighth Infantry, and acting field-officer of his regiment, had his 
horse shot under him by a musket ball on the 9th. 

I cannot close this report, without bearing testimony to the zeal and effi- 
ciency of the brigade staff. The highest praise belongs to Lieut. Chase, 
Second Artillery, acting assistant adjutant general, and Lieut. Daniels, 
Second Artillery, brigade commissary and acting aid-de-camp, for the 
rapidity with which they communicated my orders from point to point, 
and the coolness and courage they displayed under the hottest fire in both 
these battles. 

My thanks are also due to Mr. John B. Cozzens, of New York city, who 
rendered valuable assistance, by transmitting with intelligence such in- 
formation as I had occasion from time to time to communicate. 

It is impossible to enumerate all the instances of personal bravery con- 
spicuous on these days. It may be confidently asserted, that in their pas- 
sive exposure to the deadly fire of the enemy's batteries on the plain of 
Palo Alto, the fortitude, high moral courage, hardy valor, and perfect dis- 
cipline displayed by the troops, have few parallels in the history of war, 
while the battle of Resaca de la Palrna will long be associated with deeds 
of heroism and intrepid daring, which can never be surpassed. 

In the action of the 8th, the artillery battalion lost in killed, one ser- 
geant, one corporal, one private; wounded, one lieutenant, two artificers, 
one musician, and five privates — aggregate, twelve. 

The Eighth Infantry lost, killed four privates, sixteen privates wounded 
— total twenty, (including missing two privates.) The artillery company 
had wounded one non-commissioned officer, one artificer, and two pri- 
vates — total, four. 

On the 9th, the companies in Capt. McCall's command, belonging to the 
artillery battalion, lost in killed, one corporal, two privates; wounded, one 
sergeant and four privates — total, ten. 

The Eighth regiment of Infantry on the 9th, lost, in killed, one subal- 
tern, four non-commissioned officers, and three privates — total, eight; 
wounded, seven officers, (one captain and six subalterns,) eight non-com- 
missioned officers, seventeen privates — aggregate, thirty-two. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

W. G. BELKNAP, 
Lieut. Colonel commanding First Brigade. 

Capt. W. W. S. Bliss, Assistant Adft General, Army of Occupation. 



REPORT OF CAPT. DUNCAN. 225 

Report of Capt. Duncan. 

Camp opposite Matamoros, May 12, 1846. 

Sir : — In obedience to your instructions, the following report is submitted, 
in reference to the operations of the battery of field artillery, which I had 
the honor to command, in the battles of Palo Alto^ and Resaca de la Palma, 
fought on the 8th and 9th instant. 

After the fire from the enemy's artillery had been drawn by the ad- 
vance of our line of battle, in obedience to the instructions of the general 
commanding, the battery under my command was moved two hundred 
yards to the front of the line, and opened its fire. The battery being the 
most conspicuous and nearest point of our line, the principal part of the 
fire of the enemy's batteries was at once concentrated upon it, and kept 
up briskly and incessantly for nearly two hours; during this time, the bat- 
tery under my command was not idle, but the gallant officers and brave 
men who directed and worked it, returned the enemy shot for shot, with 
interest. The firing of our battery was well directed, yet the enemy's 
line, from right to left, was steady and unshaken. 

In the early part of the engagement, our guns set fire to the prairie 
grass in front of them, the flames spread rapidly, and the direction of the 
wind was such as completely to envelope our own line in smoke, and 
entirely to conceal from us the operations of the enemy. 

About two hours after the enemy's batteries opened, his fire slackened, 
and soon after ceased entirely : this cessation of fire was taken advantage 
of, to replenish our ammunition chests, which were nearly exhausted, and 
to make such repairs to the battery as had been rendered necessary. We 
were actively engaged at this work, when the reopening of the enemy's 
batteries showed us that his artillery had changed its position, and all its 
fire was concentrated upon our right, which your brigade was ordered to 
reinforce. The infantry of your brigade moved off immediately, and in- 
structions were given by you to the field artillery, to follow as soon as the 
necessary repairs were made, and the chests replenished with ammuni- 
tion. While these preparations were being made, a lucky breeze rolled 
aside the smoke that had hitherto concealed from us the movements of 
the enemy, when it was discovered that he was rapidly moving the entire 
cavalry and infantry of his right wing upon our train, which was in rear 
of the left of our line of battle. My battery at once followed your brigade 
to the right, where the important fact was communicated to you, when 
dispositions were made promptly to check this daring measure of the 
enemy. 

The battery under my command, was ordered to proceed with all pos- 

15 



226 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

sible despatch to the threatened point, and hold the enemy in check, until 
the infantry could come up to its support. Under cover of the smoke, 
which now in turn favored our movement, the battery dashed back again 
to the left flank, beyond the burning prairie, in full view of the enemy, 
and engaged him within point blank range of our little guns; so sudden 
and unexpected was this movement to the enemy, (who, but a moment 
before, saw us disappear behind the smoke in an opposite direction,) that 
his whole column of cavalry pulled up to a halt before a shot had been 
fired, or even the guns unlimbered. 

Now began the important operations of the day, so far as our little bat- 
tery was concerned. A strong body of the enemy's infantry, supported 
by two squadrons of cavalry, debouched from the extreme right of the 
chaparral, and moved steadily forward to the attack : one section of the bat- 
tery opened upon them with round shot, shell, and spherical case, so well 
directed, that the whole advance, horse and foot, fell back in disorder to 
the bushes : the other section played, in the mean time, upon the masses 
of cavalry that had halted at the sight of the guns, as before mentioned. 

Although these shot were well delivered, and each one made an open- 
ing through an entire squadron, this part of the enemy's line stood un- 
shaken. The column of cavalry and infantry, driven back into the cha- 
parral by the other section, reformed there, and moved forward a second 
time to the attack, with great regularity. After they advanced about one 
hundred yards from the chaparral, the section before ordered to drive 
them back, again opened upon them, and repulsed them with even greater 
success than before : they fell back, pell-mell, to the bushes, and com- 
menced the retreat: their supporting cavalry abandoned them, rushed 
back against the head of the columns that had hitherto withstood our 
shot, and a flight of the entire right wing commenced. Squadron after 
squadron took it up, and in less time than it takes to record the fact, the 
entire right wing of the enemy was in full retreat. Both sections were 
now brought to bear upon the enemy's broken and flying column, and a 
brisk and destructive fire kept up, until they disappeared in the chaparral, 
or darkness, that by this time enveloped both friend and foe, and put an 
end to the battle of Palo Alto. 

The hearty cheers of the gallant Eighth Infantry, who promptly sup- 
ported this movement, joined with those of Ker's intrepid dragoons, who 
had united their destinies with ours before the infantry came up, an- 
nounced to our comrades on the right, that on the left, too, the field was 
won. 

The battery now encamped, with the rest of the army, on the battle 
field, and after slaking their thirst, both officers and men threw them- 



REPORT OF CAPT. DUNCAN. 227 

selves under the guns that they had directed and served so well, and 
slept soundly until morning. 

In the affair of the second day, the enemy's strong position could not 
be assailed with more than one battery of artillery at the same time : this 
honor did not fall to the battery under my command, which came up early 
in the action, but could not take part in it, as the only position from which 
the enemy could be engaged without galling our own troops, was in pos- 
session of Ringgold's battery, under command of Lieut. Ridgely. Our own 
infantry had been pushed into the chaparral to the right and left of Ridge- 
ly's battery, and were already so far in advance, that both batteries were 
rendered unavailable ; however, by this time the enemy's batteries had 
been carried, and his infantry began to give ground. At this stage of the 
action, I received instructions to cross the ravine, and take up a new po- 
sition. 

After crossing the ravine, accompanied by Ridgely's battery, it soon be- 
came apparent that the enemy w r as in full retreat for the river. About 
this time Capt. C. F. Smith's Light Infantry, and Ker's dragoons, were or- 
dered across the ravine, to support the artillery, and the pursuit at once 
commenced. A part of the Third Infantry followed immediately, and 
Col. Child's battalion soon after. The enemy can scarcely be said to have 
made a stand after the flight commenced ; for a few well-directed shot 
from our batteries drove him from position to position until he reached 
the river. 

Soon after reaching the river, it w T as found that no regular crossing had 
been attempted by the enemy, neither had his retreat been regular. In 
twos and threes and small bodies they came to the stream, into which 
they plunged, one party after another as they came up, numbers of whom 
were drowned before reaching the opposite bank. 

As our pursuing columns debouched from the chaparral that surrounds 
our fort upon the Rio Grande, and saw the star-spangled banner still waving 
from the ramparts, the cheers of congratulation and delight that went to, 
and came back from our comrades, who had so nobly defended their posi- 
tion, can never be forgotten. 

A part of our troops having drank of the waters of the Rio Grande, fell 
back to the battle ground, where they bivouaced for the night. The two 
batteries of artillery, Ker's squadron of dragoons, Col. Child's battalion, and 
Capt. Smith's gallant command, who were the first in the battle and the 
last out of it, bivouaced upon the banks of the Rio Bravo, many of them 
upon the same ground they had left nine days before, and which had, 
during this absence, been occupied by the investing army of our gallant 
fort. 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Thus ended the battle of, and pursuit from, the field of Resaca de la 
Palma, and closed the day that will long be conspicuous in the annals of 
our country. 

My command parted with the gallant Eighth at the ravine, and left 
them hotly engaged with the enemy, and we were glad to come, under 
your command, the following day, on the same ground we left ten days 
before. 

Our loss was inconsiderable : only four men were wounded, one ser- 
geant and one artificer badly — two privates slightly. Four horses killed, 
one wounded, and the carriages slightly battered. 

It affords me the liveliest pleasure and gratification to bear testimony 
to the coolness, gallantry, and judgment with which the officers associated 
with me, First Lieut. I. F. Roland, Second Lieutenants W. Hays and J. J. 
Peck, discharged their respective duties on both of these glorious days, 
and the steadiness and bravery of my men is beyond all praise. Their 
work was done in the presence of the whole army, and they may with 
pride appeal to their comrades as to the manner in which it was per- 
formed. 

My thanks are due to Mr. John B. Cozzens of N. Y. City, who was with 
the battery during the whole of both engagements, and rendered import- 
ant service by transmitting, with coolness and intelligence, through the 
hottest fire, such orders and information as were necessary to be commu- 
nicated from point to point during the progress of the battles. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

JAMES DUNCAN, 
Capt. Second Artillery, commanding Field Artillery First Brigade. 

Lieut. Col. G. W. Belknap, 

Commanding First Brigade Army of Occupation. 



Report of Capt. McCall to Gen. Taylor. 

Camp near Matamoras, May 13, 1846. 
Sir : — On the 9th instant, in obedience to your orders, I marched from 
Palo Alto, the battle ground of the 8th, with the " advance," (consisting 
of two hundred and twenty men,) to follow and observe the movements 
of the enemy on the route to Matamoras. I directed Capt. C F. Smith, 
Second Artillery, with the light companies of the First brigade, to move 
on the right of the road, while I advanced with the detachment composed 
of artillery and infantry on the left. Capt. Walker, of the Texas Rangers, 
with a small detachment of mounted men, was ordered to examine the 



REPORT OF CAPT. McCALL. 229 

road ia front, and Lieut. Pleasanton, Second Dragoons, with a few dragoons, 
marched in rear of the columns of infantry. 

Having followed the trail of the enemy about two and a half miles, 
through the chaparral, a prisoner was taken on the edge of the Jackass 
prairie, and one of the enemy killed by Capt. Walker's men on the prairie. 

Having examined the opposite side, Capt. Walker reported the road 
clear; when, desiring to procure definite information as to the position of 
the enemy, I pushed him forward into the chaparral, (within supporting 
distance,) and one or two parties of from three to six were seen in the 
brush, one of which, a mounted party, was fired upon by my right flank- 
ers. On reaching the open ground at La Resaca de la Palma, the head of 
my column received three rounds of canister shot from a masked battery, 
which killed one private and wounded two sergeants on the left of the 
road, and made my men take cover. They rallied, however, handsomely, 
within forty or fifty paces. I now brought Capt. Smith's detachment to 
the left of the road, proposing to attack by a flank movement what I sup- 
posed to be only the rearguard of the retiring army : and I sent Lieut. 
McCown, with two men, to recall Lieut. Dobbins, who, with a few men, 
had deployed to the left, where he killed one or two of the enemy who 
showed themselves in his front. On the return of Lieut. Dobbins with 
Lieut. McCown, the former reported a large body of troops in motion on 
our left, and at the same time some lancers were observed in the road in 
front. Being now satisfied that the Mexican army was in force in our 
front, I despatched three dragoons to inform you of the fact, and then 
moved my command to a stronger position to await your arrival. 

On your arrival. Capt. Smith was again ordered to take the right of the 
road, while I took the left, with orders to bring on the action, and then 
flank the enemy. Advancing about three hundred yards or more, to the 
front and flank, I encountered the right of the enemy's infantry, and the 
action immediately commenced. They were strongly posted in the ravine, 
on the near side of the pond, (the principal line being on the opposite side,) 
and, in addition to the fire of musketry from both lines, my men were ex- 
posed to heavy discharges of canister from two field-pieces in rear of their 
centre ; yet in a short lime the enemy were driven from their right to- 
wards the road, and my men followed with a hearty cheer. In following 
them, however. I soon found that our own batteries were sweeping my 
front, and, their fire being kept up, I made a flank movement to the road, 
and here I at once became engaged with the enemy occupying the pond 
on the right of the road. As soon as their fire ceased at this point, I re- 
crossed the road to regain my former position on the right flank of the 
enemy. Here a part of my regiment became mixed in with the Fifth re- 



230 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

giment of Infantry: they united with that regiment and charged with it. 
Lieut. Pitcher, of the Fifth regiment was of the number. I continued to 
advance on the left of the Fifth regiment, and was soon engaged with part 
of the regiment of the Tampico Guards. They received several destruc- 
tive fires from my men, and then retired. I should mention that, during 
this interval, Lieut. McCown. having been separated from me, joined the 
Eighth Infantry, and charged with them. My command continued to 
move forward on the enemy's right, with more or less interruption, (in- 
separable from a bush fight,) until the close of the battle. 

Capt. Smith being separated from me, I was not an eye-witness of the 
individual conduct of himself and officers, but I enclose herewith his re- 
port made to me this day. 

In that part of my command where I was in person every officer and 
man did his duty most handsomely. I received every assistance from the 
good conduct of Lieutenants Dobbins, McCown, Wainwright, and Pitcher. 
Lieutenants D., W., and P. used their own rifles and guns with good effect 
against the enemy, and everywhere inspired the men with confidence and 
eagerness to engage. 

The loss sustained by the "advance" on the 9th May was six killed 
and fourteen wounded. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

GEORGE A. McCALL, 
Capt. Fourth Infantry, commanding the advance. 

Capt. W. W. S. Bliss, 

Adjutant General Army of Occupation. 



Report of Capt. Smith. 

Camp of the Artillery Battalion, First Brigade, 

Near Matamoros, Mexico, May 13, 1846. 
Sir : — Agreeably to your desire to-day, I have the honor to report that ; 
pursuant to your orders on the 9th instant, my command (consisting of the 
four light companies of the brigade) advanced on the right of the road, 
flanking our artillery, and about eighty yards from it. The moment the 
fire of the enemy was heard, I hastened the battalion, marching it by the 
right flank, in the direction of the pond, until stopped by the thick cha- 
parral ; when it was faced to the front, and advanced in the direction of 
the enemy's battery. It being impossible to get through the chaparral 
advancing in line of battle, I ordered an advance by the heads of compa- 



REPORT OF CAPT. HAWKINS. 231 

nies, and to have the line re-formed as soon as we could get through — a 
matter that seemed difficult, if not impossible. We had advanced thus 
but a few paces, when a discharge of musketry was given by the enemy 
towards the battery, and from our right and rear. This rendered a cor- 
responding change on my part necessary. Accordingly, I ordered the 
battalion to deploy as skirmishers, facing the pond, and to advance through 
the chaparral as far as possible. The moment this deployment was at- 
tempted, a heavy and well-sustained fire of musketry was opened upon 
us from the opposite edge of the pond, and kept up until the enemy 
retired. The chaparral was too dense for the men to charge through; but 
they maintained a steady fire, and with considerable effect, until a short 
time before the close of the action ; when, my own observation confirm- 
ing the report of the officers and men, that a severe cross-fire of musketry, 
which had been opened upon us from the left, came from our friends, I 
withdrew the battalion about two hundred yards, and then moved up the 
road to report for orders. Gen. Taylor (by his adjutant general) directed 
me to sustain Lieut. Duncan's battery, just about to pursue the enemy, 
which I did until it halted here. 

The behaviour of the company, officers, and men, was all that could be 
desired. I feel under special obligation to Capt. J. B. Scott, Fourth Artil- 
lery, for the assistance rendered me (as an acting field officer) throughout 
the day. 

I give a return of the killed (four) and wounded (nine) below. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

C. F. SMITH, 
Capt. Second Art.. Com. Batt. Light Co's., First Brigade. 

Capt. George A. McCall, 

Fourth Regiment of Infantry. 



Report of Capt. Hawkins. 

Head Quarters, Fort Taylor, 

Texas } May 10, 1846. 
Sir: — I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 6th instant, 
during the third day of the bombardment of this fort, its gallant com- 
mander, Major Brown, received a severe wound, which caused his death 
at 2 o'clock on the 9th instant. I immediately assumed command, and 
have the honor to report the result of the bombardments since 7 o'clock 
P. M., on the 4th, at which time Capt. Walker left with a report of the 
result up to that time. At 9 o'clock P. M. on the 4th, firing of musketry 



232 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

was heard in our rear, about three or four hundred yards distant, and 
apparently extending a mile up the river; the firing was very irregular. 
This continued until half-past 11 o'clock P. M. The garrison was under 
arms, batteries and defences all manned, and continued so during the 
night. On the 5th instant, at 5 o'clock A. M., the fire was recommenced 
from the enemy's batteries, which was immediately returned from the 
eighteen-pounder battery and six-pounder howitzer, placed in embrasure 
on the south-east bastion. The firing was kept up one hour, receiving 
during that time about fifty round shot and shells from the enemy. The 
batteries on both sides ceased firing at the same time. Our expenditure 
of ammunition was thirty rounds of both calibre. At 8 o'clock A. M., 
Valdez, a Mexican, came in and reported that a party of dragoons had 
been driven back from the prairie to the point, and also a party to the fort ; 
that he had seen thirty deserters from Arista's army, who stated that the 
Mexicans were without subsistence-stores, that they were tired, and left 
for their homes ; that it was stated in the Mexican camp that Arista had 
received an express from Mexico informing him that another revolution 
had broken out in Mexico, and that he could receive no support from the 
government. At 9 o'clock A. M. it was reported that a reconnoisance of 
officers, escorted by mounted men of the enemy, was going on in rear, 
within eight hundred yards of the fort; and that other parties, mounted 
and infantry, were at the same distance, extending from the bend of the 
lagoon to the river. Lieut. Hanson, Seventh Infantry, asked permission 
to take the dragoons and go and look at them. This was granted, and in 
an hour he returned, reporting that the enemy was establishing a battery 
at the cross roads; his appearance among them created great alarm, and 
they were soon concentrated at a distance under cover of their work. 
Every man at work to-day strengthening the defences. Several parties 
of cavalry and infantry seen to-day occupying our old encampment. At 
11 o'clock P. M. musketry was heard in our rear, from bend of lagoon to 
the river. The troops all at their places in the bastions during the night. 
Wednesday, May 6. — At 5 o'clock A. M., the cannonade commenced 
from the lower fort and mortar battery. Many round shot and shells 
thrown until 6 o'clock, when there was a cessation of firing. During the 
last hour, the shot and shells were well directed, bursting in all directions 
in the interior of the fort, tearing our tents to pieces, and injuring several 
horses. At half past 6 o'clock the signal eighteen-pounders were fired, at 
which the enemy opened their batteries in our front and rear, and the 
cannonade continued from two mortars and a howitzer in front, and a 
mortar established at or near the cross roads in rear, until 10 o'clock A. M., 
when our gallant commander received a mortal wound from a falling shell. 



REPORT OF CAPT. HAWKINS. 233 

Large mounted parties and infantry were seen at this time in rear. At 
7 o'clock one mortar was playing upon us from town, and two from the 
rear. At 10 o'clock a small party of infantry crept up in ravine, and fired 
musketry; but, being out of range, the fire was not returned. At half 
past 10 o'clock A. M., several parties of infantry and mounted men were 
seen surrounding us in rear. Several rounds of canister were fired from 
Lieut. Bragg's battery, which soon dispersed them. Several were after- 
wards heard to have been killed. Immediately afterwards, and until half 
past 12 o'clock P. M., we received a continual shower of shells from the 
enemy's batteries. At 2 o'clock five shells were thrown. At half past 4 
o'clock P. M., a white flag was shown at the old buildings in rear, and a 
parley sounded by the enemy. Two officers advanced, and were met by 
two officers of my command, who brought me the document marked A, 
signed by Gen. Arista, allowing me one hour to reply. 

This document being considered one of great importance, I deemed it 
necessary to convoke a council, consisting of all the company commanders 
in my command, and laid it before them. They unanimously concurred 
with me in the reply, a copy of which is the accompanying document 
marked B. This document w r as despatched in the allotted time, and 
shortly after its reception, the enemy's batteries opened upon us with a 
continual shower of shot and shells until sunset. The night was passed 
very quietly, but constant vigilance was exercised in the command; every 
man kept at his post, as an attack was confidently expected in the morning. 

Thursday, May 7. — At half past 5 o'clock A. M., the enemy's batteries 
opened with shells, and continued for about an hour and a half, and then 
ceased. At half past 7 A. M., several rounds of canister and grape were 
fired into the enemy's picket guards, at the houses in rear, and at the old 
guard-house of the Second brigade, which caused them to abandon their 
positions. This was replied to by a discharge of some ten or twelve shells. 
At 9 o'clock A. M., we received a shower of some four or five shells, and 
then stopped. About this time the enemy commenced firing iron shells, 
having previously thrown composition shells, and it was discovered that 
one of the mortars had been removed from our rear, and returned to the 
city. At a quarter past 10 A. M., we received three shells; at 11 A. M., 
eight shells; at 12 M. six shells, by which four of Lieut. Bragg's horses 
were killed, and the wheel of one of his caissons disabled. At half past 
12 the batteries were opened with round shot and shells, and continued for 
an hour and a half. By this time our bomb proofs were so far advanced, 
that our troops were comparatively protected. At 2 o'clock small parties 
of infantry commenced on us with random musketry, on the bank of the 
river, and from the ravine. At half past 2 P. M., a regular bombardment 



234 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

with shot and shells, from a howitzer and the mortars, was kept up with 
little intermission until sunset. At 5 o'clock, during this bombardment, 
a shell struck in a tent, almost entirely destroying the instruments of the 
Seventh Infantry band, to the value of three hundred dollars. The accu- 
racy of their firing now evidently increased, as at least one-half of the 
shells thrown fell in the fort. A sentinel to-day lost his arm by a round 
shot from the enemy. As soon as it was dark enough, a party headed by 
our indefatigable engineer, Capt. Mansfield, was sent out to level the tra- 
verse thrown up by Gen. Worth, and cutting down the chaparral, which 
served as a cover to the sharp shooters of the enemy. At 12 o'clock at 
night, a random fire of musketry commenced around us, followed by two 
bugles ; this continued for about one hour, and from 3 A. M., was continued 
until near day-light. 

Friday, May 8. — At a quarter past 5 o'clock A. M., the enemy's bat- 
teries again opened with shells from the lower fort, from the sand-bag 
battery, and from our rear. The fire this morning was kept up until 8 
o'clock A. M., without cessation. A party was sent out this morning, and 
burnt the old houses near the traverse, on the river bank. This drew from 
them several round shot and shells ; from 12 to half past 2 P. M., a heavy 
bombardment of shells was kept up: at least fifty thrown at us during 
that time. At half past 3 they again opened their shells upon us, accom- 
panied by round shot. At this time the enemy had established a mortar 
in the ridge of the chaparral across the river, and immediately west of us. 
Mortars were now playing upon us from the north, south, and west, four 
in number. The firing of round shot was kept up for two hours, and that 
of shells until half past 7 P. M. About half past 2 P. M., a heavy can- 
nonading w r as heard, supposed to be a little north and east of us ; it appa- 
rently approached until half past 4, when it became very distinct ; it lasted 
until nearly 7 P. M. This we supposed to be an action between our 
forces and the enemy. A little before sunset, a Mexican came running 
in with a white flag, from the direction of the Second brigade guard-house, 
claiming protection. He stated that our forces had come in contact with 
those of the enemy; had driven them back ; that he was a prisoner in charge 
of the picket guards fired on by our batteries ; that while they were bury- 
ing the dead, and carrying off the wounded, he effected his escape. During 
the cannonade this afternoon, a small column of infantry from above, and 
one of cavalry from below, were seen advancing, supposed to be rein- 
forcements to the enemy. The excitement in our command during this 
distant cannonading was intense. During the day we received from one 
hundred and fifty to two hundred shells, and from seventy-five to one 
hundred round shot, and not a man disabled. During the previous night, 



REPORT OF CAPT. HAWKINS. 235 

the halliards of the flag on the outside had become unrigged ; and as the 
firing had become too intense to re-establish them, a temporary staff was 
erected on the inside, and the national flag of the Seventh Infantry raised 
as a substitute. We passed a very quiet night — the men on the alert at 
their guns. 

Saturday, May 9. — An officer of the Seventh succeeded in lowering the 
topmast of the flag-staff, and rigging the halliards, but found he could 
not raise it again without great labor and exposure ; he therefore lashed 
it in position, and raised the national flag, after having stood a succession 
of round shot, canister, and shells from the enemy's batteries for fifteen 
or twenty minutes. At 10 o'clock, a sergeant and ten men fired the 
houses on the road which had been successively occupied by our own and 
the enemy's pickets. It brought a heavy discharge of shells, canister, 
and round shot from the enemy's batteries. Shells, with slight intervals, 
continued until half past 2 o'clock P. M. ; the mortar on our west silent, 
and one firing from a position between us and the fort, at the upper ferry; 
it was much further off, but fired accurately. Two P. M., Major Brown 
died, and in a short time we heard the re-engagement between the armies. 
Quarter to six, quite a number of Mexican cavalry, and a few infantry, 
were seen in the retreat. At this time we received a heavy fire of round 
shot and shells. From the time the battle commenced, and continued to 
increase, an eighteen-pounder and six-pounder were fired in the direction 
of the upper ferry; when, finding it difficult to distinguish between friend 
and foe, the firing was discontinued. I cannot close this report, and pass 
in silence the gallant and laborious efforts of the officers and men of this 
command, to fulfil the high trust reposed in them by the commanding 
general. Under the most disadvantageous circumstances, labor was per- 
formed by the men with the greatest alacrity, and always in good cheer. 
Our indefatigable engineer, Capt. Mansfield, is entitled to the highest 
praise. We have only to lament the loss of a gallant and faithful officer, 
who, proud of the trust reposed in him, would have gloried in the accom- 
plishment of the task which he so gallantly commenced. 

I have the honor to report a list of the killed and wounded during the 
seven days' bombardment of Fort Taylor, Texas. 

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. S. HAWKINS, 
Capt. Seventh Infantry, commanding post, 

Capt. W. W. S. Bliss, 

Assistant Adjutant General, Army of Occupation, Texas. 



236 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



(A.) 

Ejercito Mexicano, Division del Norte,") 
General en Gefe.) 

Se halla V. S. sitiado por fuerzas sufficientes a rendirla y ademas se en- 
cuentra a su espalda una numerosa division encampada que libre de toda 
atencion, valdra cuantos auxilios tenga V. S. esperanzas de recibir. 

El amor de la humanidad reconocido en el siglo presente por todas las 
naciones cultas, impone sin duda el deber de hacer menos crueles los 
desastres de la guerra. 

Este principio que los Mejicanos profesan con preferencia a cualquiera 
otra nacion, me obliga a indicarle que siendo inutiles sus esfuerzos, se 
rinda, para que por una capitulation evite la total ruina de los soldados 
que la obedecen. 

Asi me proporcionara V. S. el placer de cumplir con los sentimientos 
indicados de bondad y dulzura que forman el caracter de mis compa- 
triotes, a la vez que dare lleno al mas imperioso de los deberes que mi 
pais exige, por las ofensas que ha recibido. 

Dios y Libertad ! 
Cu artel General en los Faxques del Raminero, Mayo 6, de 1846. 

M. ARISTA. 



(B.) 
Head Quarters U. S. Forces, 

Near Matamoros, May 6, 1846, 5 P. M. 
Sir : — Your humane communication has just been received, and, after 
the consideration due to its importance, I must respectfully decline to 
surrender my forces to you. 

The exact purport of your despatch I cannot feel confident that I un- 
derstand, as my interpreter is not skilled in your language; but, if I have 
understood you correctly, you have my reply above. 
I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. S. HAWKINS, 
Commanding U. S. forces opposite Matamoros. 

Commanding Division of the North. 



REPORT OF CAPT. MANSFIELD. 237 

Killed and Wounded during the Bombardment. 

KILLED. 

May 3, 1846. — Sergeant Weigart. B. co., Seventh Infantry. 

WOUNDED. 

Major J. Brown, commanding post. 
Private Lefear, E. co., Third Artillery, slight wound. 
Private Thompson, E. co., Third Artillery, slight wound. 
Private Thompson. D. co., Fifth Infantry, slight wound. 
Citizen J. Paugh, sutler's clerk, slight wound. 
Mexican prisoner, slight wound. 
Private Smith, C. co., Seventh Infantry, slight wound. 
Private Moody, H. co., Seventh Infantry, fracture of arm. 
Citizen Russell, discharged soldier, fracture of leg. 
Private Stewart, H. co., Seventh Infantry, slight wound. 
Private Ratcliff, H. co., Seventh Infantry, slight wound. 
Mexican prisoner, slight wound. 

U tt it 

Recruit Cowan, Seventh Infantry, slight wound. 

DIED. 

Major J. Brown, commanding post. 
I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. S. HAWKINS, 
Capt. Seventh Infantry, commanding post, 
Capt. W. W. S. Bliss. 

Assistant Adjutant General, Army of Occupation, Texas. 



Report of Capt. Mansfield. 
Fort opposite Matamoros, Texas, May 12, 1846. 
Sir :— I have the honor to report the proceedings of myself, the only 
engineer officer of your command at this place during your absence with 
the army, from the 1st to the 10th instant. On the afternoon of the 1st, 
after your departure, the carpenters were continued at work on the draw 
and bridge of the fort till dark. No work was done by the soldiers this 
afternoon in consequence of the removal of their camp and tents, &c. into 
the fort. On the morning of the 2d, the labor of completing the ditching 
and embanking of the unfinished front was resumed and continued all 
day with much success. On the morning of the 3d, (Sunday,) at break 
of day, the command were roused by the fire of the enemy on our batte- 



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238 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

nes. But the labor of ditching and embanking was resumed, and con- 
tinued all day, notwithstanding the fire from the enemy's batteries, with- 
out interruption. On the 4th and 5th the ramparts were completed, al- 
though the fire of the enemy was continued, and progress made in the 
construction of a bomb-proof and traverse in rear of postern. On the 6th, 
other bomb-proofs, &c. were commenced and continued uninterruptedly, 
except by the falling and bursting of shells. On the 7th, in the evening, 
as we had frequently been insulted at night by musketry, it M r as deemed 
best to level the traverse on the bank of the river ; to prevent the use of it 
by the enemy to fire into the fort ; and one hundred men, with three offi- 
cers besides myself, accomplished the work by midnight. On the 8th the 
men were encouraged at their excessive labor by the sound of distant 
firing \ your first battle on the prairie. On the afternoon of the 9th, being 
apprehensive, and hearing no sounds of battle, and receiving no courier 
from you, and having ascertained that the enemy had sent off his troops 
from our rear to reinforce himself in your front, a party was sent out to 
burn and destroy every thing that might be a cover, or of service to the 
enemy in case he returned to his operations against the fort ; and we con- 
tinued at it till the sound of battle and the retreat of the enemy indicated 
their defeat in the afternoon. 

In the course of the duties it has fallen to my lot to perform in this short 
period, I have to state that I have been most truly and faithfully seconded 
in my operations by the late Major Brown, the commanding officer, till the 
6th, when he lost his leg by a bomb-shell, while standing six or eight feet 
from me, and which caused his death on the 9th. The same aid was ex- 
tended, cheerfully, by his successor, Capt. Hawkins, to the command. 
And all the officers and soldiers worked cheerfully to the full extent of 
their strength, at the various works, which, on consultation with the com- 
manding officer, it was deemed necessary for us to undertake for the de- 
fence of the fort and safety of the men. 

The official report of the commanding officer will give you all other 
particulars that do not fall strictly under my department. 

I cannot close this official report without expressing my regret for the 
loss of the lamented Major Brown, who indicated by the manner he exer- 
cised his command, and his coolness and self-possession under trying cir- 
cumstances, the true characteristics of the soldier and the gentleman. 

All which is respectfully submitted. 

JOS. K. F. MANSFIELD, 

Capt. Corps Engineers. 

Brig. Gen. Zachary Taylor, 

Commanding U. S. Army in Texas. 



INVENTORY OF CAPTURED PROPERTY. 

Inventory of Captured Property. 

Report of a board of officers, composed of Capt. G. Morris, Capt. C. 
H. Larnard, and First Lieut. B. Alvord, of the Fourth Infantry, convened 
at the camp of the Third brigade, on the 10th May, 1846, with orders to 
take an inventory of that portion of the property which was collected in 
that camp, captured from the Mexican army in the battle which occurred 
on the 9th May, 1846, about four miles north of Matamoros. 

ORDNANCE AND ORDNANCE STORES. 

Six six-pounder cannon — field pieces. 
Two twelve-pounder cannon — field pieces. 

Ammunition boxes for same, containing 49 rounds of six-pounder canis- 
ter fixed. 

Ammunition boxes with 7 rounds of canister for twelve-pounders. 

Five boxes containing 40 rounds twelve-pounder canister. 

36 rounds of six-pounder strap-shot fixed. 

Limber with mules and harness, belonging to the 8 field pieces. 

Three bags of slow-match and priming tube. 

393 stands of small arms, as follows : 

265 muskets with bayonets, serviceable. 

24 do. without bayonets, do. 

18 scopettes, do. 

78 muskets, broken parts, unserviceable. 

13 scopettes. do. do. do. 

100 cartridge boxes. 
155,600 rounds of musket ball-cartridges. 

18 lances. 20 swords. 2 cavalry guidons. 

ENTRENCHING TOOLS. 

30 shovels. 10 pick axes. 10 axes. 

MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION. 

About 500 mules. About 450 pack-saddles with trimmings. 

A large quantity of cabristrar and mats for packing. 

20 horses. 3 spring wagons with harness. 

15 saddles. 3 ox carts with a pair of oxen to each. 

SUBSISTENCE. 

4 sacks of rice. 6 barrels of flour. 2 sacks of bread. 

6 sacks of salt. 3 sacks of flour. 3 kegs of lard. 



240 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

9 sacks of beans. 2 sacks of sugar. 1 sack of pepper. 

3 stones for pounding corn. 

PERSONAL BAGGAGE OF OFFICERS. 

Portfolios, writing desks, canopy and other baggage of General Arista — 
package containing orders and official correspondence — one topographical 
sketch of route from Matamoros to Barita ; and one plan of the position 
of the American forces opposite Matamoros, &c. &c. 

Personal baggage of General La Vega, &c. 

One clothes-bag and roll of bedding, marked J. W. Martines. 

4 mess chests. 

7 rolls of bedding — officers' baggage. 

2 canopy frames. 

One chest, apparently belonging to a staff officer, containing " Order 
book of Division of the North," diary of events, maps, &c. (Signed,) 

FRANCIS ZEGTJRA, &c. 
MISCELLANEOUS. 

16 sacks of com. 1 anvil. 

1 blacksmith's vice. 1 bar of iron. 

1 bag of mallets. 1 box blacksmith's tools. 

2 boxes containing carpenter tools. 2 bags of fellers and spokes. 
1 bag of iron axle-trees — containing two sets. 

1 bag containing jars of tar. 

Two large boxes of band instruments — one containing also 18 uniform 
coats for musicians. 

2 bass drums. 16 common drums. 

3 water casks. 1 large copper cauldron. 

10 large iron camp kettles. 32 large tin camp kettles. 
7 iron pots. 1 medicine chest. 

3 bundles of cot frames and cots — hospital furniture. 
1 chest, containing officers' baggage, and 95 dollars in silver — owner 
not known. 

The board, in making their report, have to add, that the inventory is 
very imperfect, in consequence of the constant additions made through- 
out the day, and brought into camp and deposited, after the property had 
been counted by the board. 

GOUVERNEUR MORRIS, Capt. Fourth Infantry. 

C. H. LARNARD, Capt. Fourth Infantry. 

BENJ. ALVORD, First Lieut. Fourth Infantry. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR, 

PREVIOUS TO ACTUAL HOSTILITIES. 



Head Quarters First Military Department, 

New Orleans, La., July 20, 1845. 
Sir : — I respectfully acknowledge your communication of July 8, cover- 
ing the instructions of the Secretary of War of the same date, relative to 
the Mexican settlements on this side of the Rio Grande. Those instruc- 
tions will be closely obeyed ; and the department may rest assured that I 
will take no step to interrupt the friendly relations between the United 
States and Mexico. I am gratified at receiving these instructions, as they 
confirm my views, previously communicated, in regard to the proper line 
to be occupied at present by our troops. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 
Steamship Alabama, Aransas Pass, Texas, July 28, 1845. 

Sir: — I respectfully report my arrival at this place on the 25th instant, 
with eight companies of the Third Infantry, it having been found neces- 
sary to leave two companies of that regiment, to be brought over in other 
transports. 

The troops are temporarily established on St. Joseph's island. I am 
waiting the report of a boat expedition sent to Corpus Christi bay, before 
I determine on the site of an encampment. I hope to receive the neces- 
sary information in the course of the day, when I shall immediately com- 
mence the removal of the Third Infantry to the point selected. The posi- 
tion will probably be " Live Oak Point," in Aransas bay, some ten miles 
from our present position. I am very anxious to establish myself at the 
mouth of the Nueces, but the extreme shoalness of the water will, I fear, 

16 241 



242 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

present an insuperable obstacle, unless we can procure lighters of much 
lighter draught than those we have at present. 

The difficulties of effecting a debarkation on this coast, and of estab- 
lishing depots for supplying the army, are much greater than I anticipated, 
and will render our operations at once embarrassing and expensive. Be- 
tween Pass Cavallo and Brazos Santiago, there is no entrance for vessels 
drawing more than seven or eight feet; and the prevailing winds render 
the operation of lightening extremely uncertain and hazardous. We have 
been favored with fine weather, and, should it continue, the other trans- 
ports, which may now be expected, will be enabled to discharge without 
difficulty. 

We had a very favorable run from New Orleans ; and I am happy to 
state that the health of the command w r as greatly improved by the voy- 
age. The eight companies have scarcely any sickness at this time. 

The day before leaving New Orleans, I received from Major Donelson 
a communication dated at Austin, on the 7th of July, informing me that 
the convention had unanimously accepted the proposition of annexation, 
and suggesting that two companies should be posted at Austin. I still 
deem it best to concentrate my force until our relations with Mexico shall 
become settled, and until the country can be examined, and the best mode 
of supply ascertained. 

I hear nothing important from the Mexican frontier. Some Indian 
depredations are committed from time to time near Corpus Christi, and 
will claim my first attention after I can get established. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, August 15, 1845. 
Sir : — I have the honor to report that, by New Orleans papers of the 
7th instant, I have received intelligence of the preparatory steps taken by 
Mexico towards a declaration of war against the United States. I shall 
spare no exertions to meet suitably this probable change in the relations 
between the two countries; and the additional force ordered to join me, 
as announced in your communication of July 30, will, I trust, enable me 
to do something more than maintain a merely defensive attitude on the 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 243 

Nueces. This will depend upon the demonstrations made by Mexico 
along the Rio Grande, in regard to which the Secretary of War has so- 
licited a report. I am enabled to say, upon information which is regarded 
as authentic, that Gen. Arista was to leave Monterey on the 4th of this 
month for Matamoros with one thousand five hundred men — five hundred 
being cavalry. I learn, from the same source, that there are five hundred 
regular troops at Matamoros. In regard to the force at other points on 
the Rio Grande, except the militia of the country, I have no information; 
nor do I hear that the reported concentration at Matamoros is for any pur- 
pose of invasion. I have but just arrived at this place, and hope in a few 
days to be able to obtain more full and precise intelligence concerning 
the movements of the Mexicans. I shall not fail to communicate promptly 
to the department all such intelligence upon which I think reliance can 
be placed. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 

P. S. — I enclose a sketch prepared by Lieut. Eaton, of Aransas and 
Corpus Christi bays, showing our intended depot, and also our present 
position — Fort Marcy. Z. T, 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, August 15, 1845. 
Sir : — I have deferred, perhaps, too long making a report of my opera- 
tions since arriving on this coast ; but I have been unwilling to speak only 
of difficulties attending the establishment of my force ; and such and so 
many have been those difficulties, that not until this moment have I been 
able to report anything satisfactory in regard to our movements. After a 
careful examination — for the most part personal — of Aransas and Corpus 
Christi bays, I have settled upon this point west of the Nueces river, as 
the most favorable for present occupation, and have pushed forward the 
troops and supplies as rapidly as our means of transportation would per- 
mit. I am now enabled to report that the artillery, the Third Infantry, 
and seven companies of the Fourth Infantry, are in position here, well 
supplied with ammunition and provisions. One more company of the Fourth 
(left temporarily at St. Joseph's island) will join in a day or two. Some 
works of defence are in progress; and if I succeed in procuring some 



244 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

light guns from the sloop of war St. Mary's, (for the field battery has not 
yet arrived,) I shall feel able to maintain my position against any Mexican 
force that can be brought against it. The arrival of Graham's companies 
of the Fourth, of the Second Dragoons, and Seventh Infantry, will doubt- 
less enable me to assume an offensive attitude should it become expedient. 

Our last mail (which was saved with difficulty from the wreck of a 
schooner on the 13th instant) brought your communications of July 28 and 
30 — the latter enclosing a letter from the Secretary of War of the same 
date. I am gratified to find that my measures thus far have met the ap- 
probation of the government and general-in-chief, and, particularly, to find 
that I have but anticipated the wishes of the President in taking up a 
position west of the Nueces. 

I have determined to establish my depot, for the present, on the point 
of St. Joseph's island, whence supplies can be thrown either into Corpus 
Christi or Aransas bay, as may become necessary. Owing to the shoal- 
ness of the water between the two bays, the transportation of troops and 
supplies has been attended with much delay and expense. Instructions 
have been given to the quartermaster in New Orleans to procure trans- 
ports adapted to our purpose, on the arrival of which our supplies can be 
thrown forward with facility and economy. 

Nothing has been heard from the Second Dragoons since they marched 
from Fort Jesup, except a rumor (which I really hope may prove unfound- 
ed) that Col. Twiggs has been taken sick, and was forced to turn back. I 
am very anxious for the arrival of this regiment, as its services are greatly 
needed for outposts and reconnoisances. I shall despatch an express to 
communicate with the regiment, and ascertain its position and condition. 

Graham's companies of the Fourth Infantry were daily expected in New 
Orleans at the last advices, and will, doubtless, sail about the same time 
with the Seventh Infantry. I shall bring all the infantry to this point ex- 
cept a suitable guard for the depot in my rear, and probably all the cavalry 
also, as I do not deem it prudent to detach in our existing relations with 
Mexico. 

I am gratified to be able to report that the troops are more healthy than 
could reasonably be expected, considering their great exposure and the 
inferior quality of the water on the coast. The prevalent complaints are 
not at all serious, and the command is, perhaps, more healthy than it 
would have been had it remained at Fort Jesup and vicinity. 

The Fourth Infantry sailed from New Orleans under convoy of the "St. 
Mary's," sloop of war, Capt. Saunders. The "Falmouth," Capt. Sands, 
and "Lawrence," Capt. Jarvis, have also been off Aransas pass, and their 
commanders have communicated with me. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 245 

I take pleasure in acknowledging my obligations to these officers for 
valuable assistance which they have extended to us, and for the assurances 
of support and co-operation. 

I am, sir. very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, August 19, 1845. 
Sir : — I respectfully enclose for the information of the department, a 
copy of a letter addressed by me to the President of Texas, and forwarded 
to him by special express on the 17th instant. I have deemed it proper 
to make this communication to President Jones, in consequence of the 
desire manifested by the authorities of Texas to have a garrison establish- 
ed at once at Austin. As I cannot consent to detach any portion of my 
command while a superior Mexican force is probably concentrating in my 
front, and as I still feel bound to extend every assistance compatible with 
a successful prosecution of the main object of the expedition, towards put- 
ting the frontier in a suitable state of defence, I have judged it prudent to 
make the suggestions and recommendations which you will find in the 
enclosed letter. Trusting that they will meet the approbation of the War 
Department, 

I remain, sir. very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, August 16, 1845. 
Sir : — I have the honor to report my arrival at this place, in obedience 
to the special instructions from the War Department, of which you have 
already been apprised by my letter of July 20th to the Secretary of War 
and Marine. 

One company of artillery and a brigade of infantry are now in position 



246 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

here, and will soon be reinforced by seven companies of dragoons and an 
additional regiment of infantry. 

You have undoubtedly received intelligence of the hostile steps taken 
by Mexico, and the probable declaration of war against us by that power. 
Under these circumstances, I do not deem it prudent to detach any por- 
tion of my force at present, and it is the principal object of this commu- 
nication to recommend that any volunteers or spies now in the service of 
Texas be continued in employment, should you consider it necessary for 
the defence of the frontier. If you concur in this view, I will at your in- 
stance despatch an officer to muster into the service of the United States 
any companies which you may designate as necessary for the security of 
the frontier, to conform in numbers and organization to the laws of the 
United States. Should such musters be made. I will recommend that the 
officers and men while in service continue to receive the same rate of pay 
which they have drawn from the Texan government. 

My presence, and that of my command, is now imperatively required 
on this frontier. When our relations with Mexico, and the state of the 
service in this quarter, shall permit my absence, I will take great pleasure 
in proceeding to the seat of government, and conferring with you per- 
sonally in relation to the proper dispositions to be made for the permanent 
occupation of the frontier. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

His Excellency Anson Jones, 

President of Texas, Washington, Texas. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, August 20, 1845, 
Sir : — I beg leave to call your attention to the condition of the artillery 
company serving in this army, in regard to the number of men soon to be 
discharged, and the necessity of supplying their places as early in the 
autumn as practicable. From an official report of Lieut. Bragg, it ap- 
pears that twelve men will be discharged by the end of November, there 
being now fifty enlisted men in the company. There will thus at the end 
of November be fourteen vacancies in the company, unless some re-en- 
listments should reduce the number, upon which we cannot reckon with 
any certainty. To render a company efficient with four pieces, sixty men 
are required; to complete which number, should the general-in-chief see 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 247 

fit to add a detachment to the company for this service, twenty-two re- 
cruits will be required. 

The great importance of keeping this small force in an efficient condi- 
tion, will excuse me for urging the necessity of sending out good recruits 
to the company as soon as the advanced season will render it safe to pass 
through New Orleans. 

The field battery, much to my regret, has not yet arrived I could get 
no guns of suitable caliber from the "St. Mary's" sloop of war, but have 
procured three pieces indifferently equipped, and a small supply of am- 
munition, from the citizens of this place. These guns add materially to 
our strength in case we should be attacked here, which I do not antici- 
pate, but they are not fit for field service. I cannot doubt that our battery 
will arrive before it shall become necessary for us to move. 

The Second Dragoons are to-day at Goliad, on the San Antonio river, 
and will arrive at San Patricio on the 23d, where I expect to meet them. 
The officers and men are generally well, and the horses are in quite as 
good condition as we could expect. We have no news of the Seventh, 
or Graham's companies, of the Fourth. 

Caravans of traders arrive occasionally from the Rio Grande, but bring 
no news of importance. They represent that there are no regular troops 
on that river except at Matamoros, and do not seem to be aware of any 
preparations for a demonstration on this bank of the river. I still deem 
it my duty to look to the possibility of such an event, and to prepare for 
a forward movement, should circumstances require it. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington. D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, August 26, 1845. 
Sir: — I respectfully acknowledge the receipt of your communications 
of August 6th and 9th — the former by the hands of Lieut. Ringgold, who 
arrived here yesterday. A duplicate of the despatch of the 6th has also 
been received by mail, as well as general orders Nos. 37 and 38. 

In regard to employing volunteers from Texas, you will perceive that I 
have in part anticipated the wishes of the government in my letter of the 
16th instant to President Jones, a copy of which was furnished you on 



248 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



the 19th. In that communication I looked only to the defence of the 
frontier against Indian aggressions, bi»t I shall now communicate with 
President Jones, and ascertain the number of volunteers that can be called 
into service in case of an invasion by Mexico, and shall take the necessary 
steps to arm and employ that force should the safety of the country re- 
quire it. I feel confident, however, that such necessity will not arise. 
The three companies of dragoons from Fort Washita will afford adequate 
protection to the country about Austin, and will, I doubt not, enable us 
ultimately to dispense even with the very small irregular force now in 
service in that quarter. 

Judging from the best information I can obtain as to the future wants 
of the service on this frontier, looking more particularly to the possibility 
of an invasion of the soil of Texas by Mexican troops, I deem the force 
soon to be under my orders, viz : four batteries of field artillery, one 
regiment of cavalry, and five regiments of infantry, to be fully adequate 
to meet any crisis that may arise. The ordnance and ordnance stores 
already shipped are ample for all our purposes, unless indeed it should 
become necessary to invest Matamoros, in which case a battering train 
of heavier caliber would be required. A moderate supply of pontons and 
ponton wagons might greatly facilitate any active operations in this 
country, where it is next to impossible to bridge the streams, owing to the 
scarcity of timber. 

I have received special orders Nos. 66 and 68, assigning officers of the 
engineers, topographical engineers, and ordnance to my command : two 
of those officers, Lieutenants Scarritt and Kingsbury, have already report- 
ed with promptness. Our greatest want has been, and still is, a strong 
and efficient corps of quartermasters. Capt. Cross was necessarily sent 
with the dragoons, though under orders from his own department, which 
would have retained him at Fort Jesup. I do not consider him as pro- 
perly belonging to my command, and shall relieve him from duty on the 
arrival of the dragoons. We shall then have four regiments in camp, 
without one quartermaster on duty with them. I am informed that Cap- 
tains Myers and Ketchum have been ordered to join me, but it does not 
seem unreasonable to request that, in addition to a proper supply of cap- 
tains, a field officer of rank and efficiency be despatched to assume 
direction of that important branch of the public service. 

Five companies of the Seventh Infantry have arrived at St. Joseph's 
island, and will join me in a day or two. Graham's companies have also 
arrived, and we have reason to expect three companies from Pensacola 
in a few days. Two companies of volunteer artillerists, mustered into 
service by Gen. Gaines, have reported to me very unexpectedly; and as 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 249 

I have made no application for this force, and do not deem it necessary, 
I am placed in a rather embarrassing situation. As they are now here, I 
think it best, on the whole, to retain them for a short period, perhaps until 
the arrival of our own artillery, when they can be handsomely discharged 
and sent home. 

I met the dragoons at San Patricio, on the 24th, and was much pleased 
with their efficient condition. They have found ample supplies of forage 
and water, and the horses are in excellent flesh, most of them being now 
fit for any service. The regiment will probably join me here to-morrow. 

I regret to learn that the most false and exaggerated rumors have pre- 
vailed in New Orleans, in relation to reported disasters encountered by 
this command. These rumors are not only calculated to cause much pain 
and anxiety in the community, but also to entail a heavy and needless 
expense upon the government in procuring the muster of volunteers, &c. 
T beg you to understand that, even with the small force originally under 
my command, I have had too much confidence in my officers and men to 
feel any apprehension of serious disaster. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. V. S. A n commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington City. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, August 30, 1845. 

Sir : — I respectfully report the arrival at this point of seven companies 
of the Seventh Infantry under Major Brown, and two companies of vo- 
lunteer artillery under Major Gaily. Major Seawell's company, I am 
informed, was ordered back to Baton Rouge by Gen. Gaines, and some 
small detachments of that regiment were also left at several posts. I 
have retained one company as a guard for the depot at St. Joseph's island. 

The battalion of volunteer artillery has a fine battery of eight pieces — 
two twelves and six sixes, completely equipped in every respect. The 
officers are zealous, and the men seem to be quite well instructed in their 
duties. In case of need, I look for valuable service from this battalion. 

I have just received a communication from President Jones, under date 
of the 23d instant, notifying me that he had taken preparatory steps to- 
wards organising a volunteer force of one thousand men to assist me, if 
necessary. This matter will form the subject of a special communication 
to your office in a few days. 



250 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Apprehending that the erroneous impressions current in New Orleans 
in regard to our situation might induce Gen. Gaines to order the muster 
of a battalion or brigade of infantry, I addressed a communication to his 
staff officer, by the steamship Alabama, expressing my thanks for the re- 
inforcement of the volunteer battalion of artillery, but with the hope that 
no more volunteers would be sent, without a requisition from me. That 
communication will reach New Orleans to-night or to-morrow, in time, I 
trust, to stop the employment of any more volunteers. 

We have no news from the Rio Grande. Idle stories are brought in from 
that quarter, but with the means of accurate information which we now 
possess, I do not deem it necessary to repeat them. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, September 6, 1845. 

Sir : — I have the honor to report that a confidential agent, despatched 
some days since to Matamoros, has returned, and reports that no extraor- 
dinary preparations are going forward there ; that the garrison does not 
seem to have been increased, and that our consul is of opinion there will 
be no declaration of war. A decree had been issued, prohibiting, under 
the penalty of death, any communication, by writing, across the frontier — 
a precaution which has been adopted on former occasions, and caused, no 
doubt, by our presence here. Nothing definite can be learned in relation 
to the march of troops from the interior. A body of three thousand men 
was reported in march to Matamoros, but the information is too vague to 
merit much confidence. The agent, who is intelligent, and upon whose 
statements a good deal of reliance may, I think, be .safely placed, says 
that the mass of the people, with whom he mingled, is opposed to a war 
with us, and that if war be declared, the frontier departments of Tamau- 
lipas, Coahuila, and Nuevo Leon, will probably declare themselves inde- 
pendent of the central government, and establish pacific relations with us. 

This is the substance of the information brought from Matamoros. Not- 
withstanding its character, I shall not relax my exertions to prepare for 
active operations, and a state of war with Mexico. I must express the 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 251 

hope that no militia force will be ordered to join me without my requisi- 
tion for it. I am entirely confident that none will be required. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, September 14, 1845. 

Sir : — I respectfully acknowledge the following communications from 
the Secretary of War — one of August 23, conveying the instructions of 
the department in relation to the employment of volunteers from the 
United States; one of August 26, enclosing copies of circulars to the go- 
vernors of Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi ; and two of August 30, 
giving further instructions for my government, and enclosing copies of 
instructions to Com. Conner, and of a letter of August 28 to Major Gen. 
Gaines; also, your communications of August 26 and 30, enclosing a copy 
of the same letter to Gen. Gaines, and desiring more frequent communica- 
tions from my head quarters. 

I now regret that I suffered the interval between July 28 and August 
15 to elapse without making any report to your office; but I was inces- 
santly occupied, during that time, in examining the country, and after- 
wards in making an establishment at this point, and could not have re- 
ported anything important, of a positive nature, until my arrival here. 
Could I have imagined the possibility of such extravagant rumors as pre- 
vailed in New Orleans, and, above all, that they could gain credence in 
the public mind, when the same means of communication brought no re- 
port from me, I would certainly have apprised the department, by every 
opportunity, of our operations, unimportant as they might have seemed. 
No intelligence, worthy of credit, was received from the Rio Grande, un- 
til just before my report of August 15. Since that date I have kept the 
department advised, at short intervals, of our situation and the news from 
the frontier. 

In view of the large reinforcements of regular troops ordered to join 
me, I cannot believe that it will become necessary, under any circum- 
stances, to employ volunteers from the United States. In reply to my 
communication, of August 16, to President Jones, a copy of which was 
forwarded to your office, the president indicated a few companies of 
rangers, amounting, in all, to about three hundred men, as proper to be 



252 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

mustered into service for the protection of the frontier. I have accord- 
ingly given orders for the muster of one company at Austin, and one at 
Bexar. A company at ihis place, and one at Goliad, are designated by 
the president, and will be mustered when their enrolment is completed. 
Three small detachments, of thirty men each, are to be considered in ser- 
vice, but cannot, from their position, be conveniently mustered at present. 
It will be recollected, that when I addressed the president of Texas on 
this subject, I could not anticipate the transfer of dragoons from Fort 
Washita ; and although two of the companies, indicated above, might, 
perhaps, be dispensed with, I think it best, from motives of policy, to 
retain them for three months, the term for which all are to be mustered. 
You will see from my "special orders," No. 14, that I have directed two 
of the three companies from Red river to San Antonio, retaining one at 
Austin. With a company of mounted rangers at each place, the frontier 
will be secure from insult. The commander of the rangers at San An- 
tonio, Major Hays, has reputation as a partisan, and to him I have specially 
intrusted the duty of keeping me advised of any movements on the Rio 
Grande in the neighborhood of Laredo, with strict injunctions, however, 
to molest no Mexican establishments on this side of the river. Should 
San Antonio be seriously menaced, it can be readily succored from this 
point. A route will be immediately opened hence to San Antonio. I 
would at once put a larger force in that town, but for the difficulty of sup- 
plying it. 

An examination is now making by an officer of engineers of the coun- 
try in our front, chiefly to select suitable sites for encampments, should it 
become necessary to winter in this neighborhood. The great scarcity of 
wood will render it necessary, in that case, to change our position. Re- 
connoissances will soon be made of the Nueces river and the Laguna 
Madre, to ascertain their navigability, and the facility of establishing 
depots in the event of a forward movement to the Rio Grande. 

We have no news of interest from the frontier. Arista, at the last ac- 
counts, was at Mier, but without any force: nor is there, as yet, any con- 
centration of troops on the river. A report reached San Antonio, a few 
days since, that preparations were making to receive troops at Laredo. 
This I consider very doubtful ; but if troops arrive there, I shall expect to 
receive early information of the fact from San Antonio. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A. } commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 253 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, October 4, 1845. 
Sir : — I beg leave to suggest some considerations in relation to the pre- 
sent position of our force, and the dispositions which may become neces- 
sary for the more effectual prosecution of the objects for which it has been 
concentrated. It will be recollected that the instructions of June 15, 
issued by Mr. Bancroft, then acting Secretary of War, directed me to 
" select and occupy, on or near the Rio Grande, such a site as will con- 
sist with the health of the troops, and will be best adapted to repel inva- 
sion," &c. Brazos Santiago is the nearest entrance to the mouth of the 
Rio Grande ; and Point Isabel, within that entrance, and twenty-one 
miles from Matamoros, would have fulfilled more completely than any 
other position the conditions imposed by the secretary. But we had no 
artillery, no engineer force or appliances, and but a moderate amount of 
infantry; and the occupation of Point Isabel, under these circumstances, 
and with at least the possibility of resistance from the Mexicans, might 
have compromised the safety of the command. I therefore determined to 
take up the next accessible position in the rear, which is the mouth of the 
Nueces river. All the information which I could obtain before leaving 
New Orleans, seemed to point to Corpus Christi as the most suitable point 
for concentration ; and, although before the President's instructions of 
July 30 reached me, I would have preferred a position on the left bank 
of the river, yet a careful examination of the country had already con- 
vinced me that none could be found combining so many advantages as 
this. Every day's experience has confirmed these impressions. Corpus 
Christi is healthy, easily supplied, and well situated to hold in observation 
the course of the Rio Grande from Matamoros to Laredo — being about a 
hundred and fifty miles from several points on the river. I have reason 
to believe, moreover, that a salutary moral effect has been exercised upon 
the Mexicans. Their traders are continually carrying home the news of 
our position and increasing numbers, and are confessedly struck by the 
spectacle of a large camp of well-appointed and disciplined troops, accom- 
panied by perfect security to their persons and property, instead of the 
impressment and pillage to which they are subject in their own country. 
For these reasons, our position thus far has, I think, been the best possi- 
ble; but, now that the entire force will soon be concentrated, it may well 
be a question whether the views of government will be best carried 
out by our remaining at this point. It is with great deference that I make 
any suggestions on topics which may become matter of delicate negotia- 
tion ; but if our government, in settling the question of boundary, makes 



254 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

the line of the Rio Grande an ultimatum, I cannot doubt that the settle- 
ment will be greatly facilitated and hastened by our taking possession at 
once of one or two suitable points on or quite near that river. Our strength 
and state of preparation should be displayed in a manner not to be mis- 
taken. However salutary may be the effect produced upon the border 
people by our presence here, we are too far from the frontier to impress 
the government of Mexico with our readiness to vindicate, by force of 
arms, if necessary, our title to the country as far as the Rio Grande. The 
"Army of Occupation" will, in a few days, be concentrated at this point, 
in condition for vigorous and efficient service. Mexico having as yet made 
no positive declaration of war, or committed any overt act of hostilities, I 
do not feel at liberty, under my instructions, particularly those of July 8, 
to make a forward movement to the Rio Grande without authority from 
the War Department. 

In case a forward movement should be ordered or authorised, I would 
recommend the occupation of Point Isabel and Laredo as best adapted to 
the purposes of observing the course of the river and covering the frontier 
settlements of Texas. Point Isabel is accessible by water, and can be 
safely occupied by two brigades of infantry, with a suitable force of field 
artillery. On the arrival of the steamer Harne} r , I shall order a careful 
reconnoissance of Brazos Santiago, as a necessary preliminary measure to 
the occupation of Point Isabel. To occupy Laredo will require a land 
march from this point. Supplies may probably be transported by water 
as high as San Patricio, and possibly to the junction of the Rio Frio with 
the Nueces. I propose to establish a depot on the Nueces river, probably 
at the crossing of the San Antonio and Laredo road, from which to operate 
towards the Rio Grande. You will perceive from my "special orders," 
No. 24, that a reconnoissance has been ordered in that direction. A bri- 
gade of infantry, with the cavalry, and a battery or two of field artillery, 
will be sufficient for the occupation of Laredo. That town is on the left 
bank of the Rio Grande, and possesses the military advantage of holding 
in observation the main route from the interior of Mexico through Monte- 
rey to Matamoros. 

In case it should be found impracticable to establish a suitable depot on 
the Nueces, the entire force, after strengthening San Antonio, might be 
thrown forward to Point Isabel, where it could be readily supplied, and held 
in readiness for any further service. 

I have deemed it my duty to make the above suggestions. Should they 
be favorably considered, and instructions based upon them. I will thank 
you to send the latter in duplicate to Lieut Col. Hunt — one copy to be de- 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 255 

spatched direct, without delay • the other to be sent via Galveston, should 
a steamer be running to that port from New Orleans. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington , D. C. 

P. S. — It is proper to add, that, should any auxiliary force be required, 
I propose to draw it wholly from Texas. I do not conceive that it will 
become necessary, under any circumstances, to call for volunteers from 
the United States. Z. T. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation. 

Corpus Christi, Texas, October 11th, 1845. 

Sir: — I respectfully report the arrival at St. Joseph's island, on the 9th 
instant, of five companies of the Fifth Infantry, under Lieut. Col. Mcintosh, 
two companies of the Eighth Infantry, under Capt. Montgomery, and one 
company of the Seventh Infantry, under Brevet Major Seawell. Lieut. 
Col. Mcintosh's command (of seventeen officers and two hundred and 
thirty-nine men) arrived here to-day. These troops are in good health, 
and complete the entire number ordered to this coast. I feel a satisfac- 
tion, which I cannot doubt will be shared by the department, in being able 
thus to report the completion, without disaster or notable accident, of the 
transfer of so many bodies of troops from remote points to this coast, at an 
unfavorable season of the year. 

Lieut. Col. Payne will be announced in orders to-morrow as acting in- 
spector general of this army. I shall assign Major Ewing to the com- 
mand of the field batteries, leaving Brevet Lieut. Col. Childs in command 
of the battalion of artillery companies in the First brigade. 

In regard to the discharge of the volunteer artillery from New Orleans, 
I would respectfully remark, that their term of service will soon be draw- 
ing to a close ; and as their service here has been most creditable to them 
in every respect, and they would feel a mortification in being summarily 
discharged, [ would ask leave to retain them until such a time as will 
allow them to reach New Orleans by the expiration of the period for which 
they were mustered. 

You will, I hope, readily appreciate the motives of policy which may, 



256 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

in the long run, render their detention an absolute benefit to the public 
service. I need hardly say that I much regretted their employment in the 
first instance ; but, under all the circumstances of the case, I think it best 
to keep them for the short period of their term which yet remains. The 
excellence of their discipline and instruction has won the most favourable 
opinions from the officers here. 

Recent arrivals from the Rio Grande bring no news or information of a 
different aspect from that which I reported in my last. The views ex- 
pressed in previous communications relative to the pacific disposition of 
the border people on both sides of the river are continually confirmed. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D.C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, October 15, 1845. 

Sir: — I respectfully enclose the return of the Army of Occupation for 
July. At the end of that month all the corps of the army had not reached 
Texas, some of them being yet at sea, which is the reason that no return 
was furnished at the proper time. 

All the troops destined for this point are now in position here, except 
Major Ringgold's company, which is expected daily from St. Joseph's 
island. The morning report of to-day exhibits an aggregate present of 
three thousand seven hundred and thirty-three, which Ringgold's compa- 
ny, and an absent detachment of cavalry, will increase to three thousand 
eight hundred and sixty. Capt. Burke's company remains as a guard at 
St. Joseph's island. 

Three hundred recruits are now wanted in the regiments and detach- 
ments here ; which number, I can hardly doubt, will be increased to 
nearly five hundred by the close of the year. I hope measures may be 
taken to supply the requisite number of recruits, or as many as can be 
spared, from the depot. 

The utmost activity prevails in the instruction of the brigades and regi- 
ments. Col. Whistler's brigade commenced to-day with evolutions of the 
line, and will be followed by the others as rapidly as possible. Several 
of the regiments have been so long cut up in small detachments as to 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 257 

render it necessary to dwell for some time upon the school of the battalion 
before proceeding to the higher manoeuvres. 

I have nothing of interest to report from the frontier. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, November 7, 1845. 

Sir: — I respectfully enclose a copy of a letter from Com. Conner, com- 
manding the home squadron, which I received by the "Saratoga" sloop 
of war on the 5th instant. The intelligence communicated by the com- 
modore will, doubtless, reach the seat of government long before the 
receipt of this letter. 

The communication from the Secretary of War, dated October 16, was 
received and acknowledged on the 1st and 2d instant. I purposely de- 
ferred a detailed reply to the various points embraced in that communi- 
cation until I could receive an answer to mine of October 4, which covered 
(at least in part) the same ground. The intelligence from Mexico, how- 
ever, tends to modify, in some degree, the views expressed in that com- 
munication. The position now occupied by the troops may, perhaps, be 
the best while negotiations are pending, or at any rate until a disposition 
shall be manifested by Mexico to protract them unreasonably. Under 
the supposition that such may be the view of the department, [ shall 
make no movement from this point, except for the purpose of examining 
the country, until further instructions are received. You will perceive, 
from my orders, that reconnoissances are almost constantly in the field, the 
officers of engineers and topographical engineers rendering valuable ser- 
vice on those duties. T refer you to the reports made by those officers to 
the chiefs of their own bureaux for the information which is thus pro- 
cured in relation to the country. An examination of the harbor of Brazos 
Santiago will be ordered in a few days — as soon as a proper vessel shall 
become disposable for that service. 

In case no movement is made this season towards the Rio Grande, I 
may find it necessary to detach a portion of the army a short distance 
into the interior, where wood can be more readily procured than here. 

17 



258 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Bat m no case do I deem it necessary to hut the troops, 
platforms, on which to pitch the tents,' we re extensively used in camps 
of position in Florida, and will, I cannot doubt, form a sufficient protec- 
tion here. 

On the hypothesis of an early adjustment of the boundary, and the 
consequent establishment of permanent frontier posts, I cannot urge too 
strongly upon the department the necessity of occupying those posts be- 
fore the warm weather shall set in. A large amount of sickness is, I fear, 
to be apprehended, with every precaution that can be taken ; but the in- 
formation which I obtain leads me to believe that a summer movement 
would be attended with great expense of health and life. As in Florida, 
the winter is the best season for operations in Texas. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. JJ. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



U. S. Ship Falmouth, 
Off Vera Cruz, October 24, 1845. 
General : — I hasten to inform you that the Mexican government has 
accepted the proposal made by that of our country to arrange the existing 
difficulties by negotiation. This information left here for Washington 
yesterday by Mr. Parrolt, and we may consequently soon expect an envoy 
to be sent out from the United States. I deem it advisable you should be 
thus early apprised of this change in the state of our relations. 

No troops have marched towards the frontier for a length of time • and 
I am told by Mr. Parrott, who left Mexico a few days since, that many of 
Arista's officers had returned to that city in a state of utter poverty. 
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, 

D. CONNER, 
Commanding Home Squadron. 
Brig. Gen. Taylor, 

Commanding Army of Occupation. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 259 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, November 8, 1845. 

Sir : — I beg leave to call your attention to the present condition of our 
communications with the United States. 

While in New Orleans, I represented the necessity of a despatch vessel 
— a steamer, if practicable — to ply between our position and New Or- 
leans. I was informed from your office under date of July 30th, that 
measures had been taken to supply the want, and under date of August 
23d, from the War Office, that the <c On-ka-hy-e» the "Harney," and the 
li Dolphin," would be put into service as despatch vessels for the above 
purpose. Of all these vessels, the "On-ka-hy-e" alone has reported to 
me; and her degree of utility for this particular service may be judged 
from the fact that she sailed from Aransas pass more than a month since 
for Mobile and New Orleans, and has not yet returned. In fact, she is a 
dull sailer, and wholly unfit for the purposes for which she was sent out. 
By a report received yesterday from the commander of the "Harney," it 
appears that she is now lying in the Mississippi river, and that her boiler 
is in such condition that it is deemed entirely unsafe for her to go to sea. 
Of the " Dolphin" I have heard nothing. 

It thus appears that the means provided for keeping up a regular and 
frequent communication with the Army of Occupation have proved totally 
inadequate. The necessity of such a communication is now much greater 
than when I first addressed you on the subject, and I must respectfully 
request that some efficient arrangement be made by which our mails may 
be received and sent with at least tolerable regularity. For this purpose 
it is necessary to have a good seagoing steamer entirely under the control 
of the quartermaster's department. If the "Harney," or the "General 
Taylor," which once belonged to that department, can be returned to it 
again, I have little doubt that either of them would answer the purpose 
New Orleans should by all means be the port of departure — and the 
public freight which a vessel of the kind could bring, would go far to pay 
her expenses. 

In the event of a forward movement to the Rio Grande with any possi- 
bility of hostile operations, a small armed vessel would be indispensable 
to cover the depot which would in that case be established at Brazos San- 
tiago, as well as our landing at that point. And I would suggest at any 
rate, that until the most perfect friendly relations are again established 
with Mexico, a naval vessel of the above description be placed under my 
orders. 

I have to acknowledge your communication of October 20th, with en- 



260 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



closures relative to a charge against Brevet Major Beall ; copy of your 
communication of October 21st to late Lieut. Quimby, Seventh Infantry; 
certificate of disability in the case of Sergeant Branton, company B., Se- 
cond dragoons; '-general orders" No. 48 ; and "special orders" Nos. 101 
and 102. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, November 19, 1845. 

Sir: — By a report from Major Fauntleroy, Second Dragoons, command- 
ing at San Antonio, dated the 1st instant, it appears that, upon the requi- 
sition, or at the suggestion of a Major Neighbors, represented to be an 
"Indian agent" under the government of Texas, he despatched a party 
from his command, on the 30th of October, under the direction of said 
agent, to arrest some Camanches who were in the Lipan camp, not far 
from San Antonio, and who were reported by the Lipans to have com- 
mitted some depredations near Corpus Christi. The Camanches suffered 
themselves to be taken without resistance, but afterwards suddenly broke 
from the guard, and made their escape. The guard, agreeably to orders, 
fired upon them, and wounded two of the number, there being six or 
eight in all. 

This circumstance is greatly to be regretted, and may be the germ of 
serious difficulty on the Indian frontier. My instructions to Major Faunt- 
leroy have been very pointed — to exercise great caution in all matters re- 
lating to alleged Indian depredations. In the present case, the reports 
against the Camanches were entirely false — at least, no depredations have 
been committed by them near Corpus Christi. to my knowledge ; and, 
even if true, Major Fauntleroy had no evidence of the facts sufficiently 
strong to warrant him in the course he took. The moment that the ser- 
vice will permit my absence from the main army here, I shall visit San 
Antonio and Austin, with a view to adopt such measures as may be re- 
quired by the public interest in that quarter. In the mean time, I shall 
give such instructions to Major Fauntleroy as will prevent a recurrence of 
such hasty and ill-judged proceedings hereafter. 

I have already reported to the department the steps which I have found 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 261 

it necessary to take for the protection of the Indian frontier of Texas; and 
that I deemed it advisable for that purpose to muster into service a few 
companies of rangers. These companies were mustered into service for 
three months; and their respective terms will expire about the end of the 
year. Should the present pacific aspect of our Mexican relations continue, 
it will not be necessary to continue this force in service, except possibly 
one company as guides. It will then become necessary to strengthen the 
regular force on the frontier; and, to avoid useless marches and expense, 
I would respectfully ask to be informed, if consistent with propriety, what 
corps are destined for the permanent occupation of Texas on a peace es- 
tablishment. Such corps can then be placed in position at once, at a time 
when they are most wanted, and when they can establish posts with least 
prejudice to health. San Antonio, Austin, and perhaps, an intermediate 
point on the Guadaloupe, must be military stations: and the sooner they 
are occupied by the regular garrisons who. are destined for that service, the 
better. A large force of cavalry cannot be sustained on the frontier with- 
out very heavy expense at this time ; and I would not at present add more 
than one to the number of companies already there. Infantry may be 
subsisted at a comparatively small rate. 

Recent arrivals from the Rio Grande bring no news whatever. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, January 7, 1846. 

Sir: — For the information of the general- in-chief, and war department, 
I make the following extract from a private letter lately received at this 
place from our consul at Matamoros, and dated December 24, 1845 : 

"Our accounts from the interior are, that Gen. Paredes, at San Luis, is 
about rising against the government ; it is given out that he and his party 
are against treating with the United States. Our minister, Mr. John Slidell, 
of New Orleans, has arrived at Mexico ; so, if the revolution does not break 
out, we shall shortly have a treaty, I hope. Gen. Arista rests quiet, to 
see, perhaps, what success attends Gen. Paredes. In this part of the 
country, the people are in favor of peace, and, I should judge, of a treaty 
with the United States, but a considerable excitement has been produced 
by the news from Gen. Paredes. 



262 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



"A little schooner (the Susanna, of New Orleans,) has come in here in 
distress. She was seized by our custom house, and the captain was im- 
prisoned, but is released upon bail. I have forwarded some documents 
to Mexico respecting her." 

We have intelligence from Matamoros as late as the 1st instant, to the 
effect that a courier had arrived from the interior, bringing the news that 
Paredes, with a large force, was within thirty leagues of the city of 
Mexico ; that much excitement prevailed in Matamoros in favor of Paredes? 
and against Herrera. Ir is also stated that the officers of the garrison had 
declared for Paredes. I look with great anxiety for further news from 
Mexico. 

The above intelligence is received from Matamoros. We have many 
arrivals from other points on the river, but they bring no intelligence of 
interest. A recent scout of volunteers from San Antonio struck the river 
near Presidio, Rio Grande, and the commander reports every thing quiet 
in that quarter. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington. D. C 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation; 

Corpus Christi, Texas, February 4, 1846. 

Sir : — I respectfully acknowledge the communication of the Secretary 
of War, dated January 13th, and containing the instructions of the Presi- 
dent to move forward with my force to the Rio Grande. I shall lose no 
time in making the necessary preparations for carrying out those instruc- 
tions. 

The occupation of Point Isabel or Brazos Santiago as a depot will be 
indispensable. That point, and a position on or near the river opposite 
Matamoros will, I think, answer all present purposes. At any rate, I shall 
not separate my force further, until the position of affairs shall render it 
entirely safe to do so. 

I propose to abandon this position entirely, as soon after our march as 
the stores, hospital, &c, can be transferred to St. Joseph's island. It will 
be necessary to keep up an establishment at that point for the present, 
although our supplies will come to Point Isabel direct from New Orleans. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 263 



In reply to the call of the secretary for information as to what means, 
if any, will be required " to enforce and maintain our common right to 
navigate" the Rio Grande, I would respectfully state that, until I reach 
the river, and ascertain the condition of things in the frontier states of 
Mexico, temper of the people, &c, I cannot give any satisfactory answer 
to the question. I have every reason to believe that the people residing 
on the river are well disposed towards our government. Our advance to 
the Rio Grande will itself produce a powerful effect, and it may be that 
the common navigation of the river will not be disputed. It is very im- 
portant to us, and will be indispensable when posts are established higher 
up, as must ultimately be the case. 

I shall not call for any militia force in addition to what I already have, 
unless unforeseen circumstances shall render its employment necessary. 

I beg leave again to call the attention of the department to the necessity 
of having our movement and position at Brazos Santiago covered by a 
small armed vessel. I deem this vitally important, and hope it will meet 
with favorable consideration. 

We have no news from the interior of Mexico more recent than that 
derived from the New Orleans papers of the 26th January. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, February 16, 1846. 
Sir: — I respectfully report that I received last evening by the sloop- 
of-war '■' St. Mary's" a communication from Com. Conner, commanding 
the home squadron, dated the 4th instant, in which he announces his 
intention to proceed with the squadron to Vera Cruz, and desires to know 
in what way he can co-operate with the land forces under my command. 
I have informed the commodore that I am about to move to the Rio 
Grande under instructions from the Department of War, and have desired 
him to give me the support of one or two small vessels to assist us, if 
necessary, in taking possession of Brazos Santiago, and at all events to 
cover the establishment of a depot at that point. I deem this co-operation 
very opportune and necessary, and am gratified to obtain it. Com. Conner 
will be enabled at the same time to communicate directly with me, and 
furnish the latest intelligence from Vera Cruz and the city of Mexico. 



264 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



Examinations are now in progress of the two routes to Point Isabel — 
that by the main land and that by PadTe island. The reports of the offi- 
cers charged with them will determine the route of march. Our train, 
which is necessarily very heavy, is rapidly organising, and we shall be 
able to commence the movement about the 1st of March. 

Many reports will doubtless reach the department, giving exaggerated 
accounts of Mexican preparations to resist our advance, if not indeed to 
attempt an invasion of Texas. Such reports have been circulated even at 
this place, and owe their origin to personal interests connected with the 
stay of the army here. I trust that they will receive no attention at the 
War Department. From the best information I am able to obtain, and 
which I deem as authentic as any, I do not believe that our advance to 
the banks of the Rio Grande will be resisted. The army, however, will 
go fully prepared for a state of hostilities, should they unfortunately be 
provoked by the Mexicans. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Corpus Christi, Texas, February 26, 1846. 

Sir: — I have to report that the preparations for a forward movement of 
this command are now nearly completed. The examinations spoken of in 
my report of the 16th instant have shown the practicability of both routes 
— by the main land and by Padre island. The reconnoissance of Padre 
island extended to its southern extremity, and included the harbor of 
Brazos Santiago and Point Isabel ; that of the main route reached to a 
point near the Little Colorado. A depot, with four days' forage, and sub- 
sistence for the army, will be thrown forward some forty miles, to the 
Santa Gertrudes. A detachment of two companies, to establish and cover 
this depot, will march, on the 28th, under Brevet Major Graham. In 
about a week thereafter, say the 7th of March, the cavalry will march, to 
be followed, at intervals of one day, by the brigades of infantry. By the 
25lh of March, at latest, I hope to be in position on the Rio Grande. 

I have taken occasion to represent to some citizens of Matamoros, who 
were here with a large number of mules for sale, and who are represented 
to have considerable influence at home, that the United States govern- 
ment, in occupying the Rio Grande, has no motive of hostility towards 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 265 

Mexico, and that the army will, in no case, go beyond the river, unless 
hostilities should be commenced by the Mexicans themselves; that the 
Mexicans, living on this side, will not be disturbed in any way by the 
troops; that they will be protected in all their rights and usages; and 
that everything which the army may need will be purchased from them 
at fair prices. I also stated that, until the matter should be finally ad- 
justed between the two governments, the harbor of Brazos Santiago would 
be open to the free use of the Mexicans as heretofore. The same views 
were impressed upon the Mexican custom-house officer at Brazos San- 
tiago by Capt. Hardee, who commanded the escort which covered the 
reconnoisance of Padre island. 

We are entirely without news of interest from the frontier, or the inte- 
rior of Mexico, our latest date from the capital being the 21st of January, 
and the same from Vera Cruz. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington. D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, March 8, 1846. 

Sir : — I respectfully report that the advance of the army, composed of 
the cavalry and Major Ringgold's light artillery, the whole under the 
command of Col. Twiggs, took up the line of march this morning in the 
direction of Matamoros, its strength being twenty-three officers and three 
hundred and seventy-eight men. The advance will be followed in suc- 
cession by the brigades of infantry, the last brigade marching on the 11th 
instant. The roads are in good order, the weather fine, and the troops in 
excellent condition for service. 

Major Munroe will embark for Brazos Santiago in season to reach that 
harbor about the time the army will be in the vicinity of Point Isabel. 
He takes with him a siege train and a field battery. Capt. Sanders, of the 
engineers, the officers of ordnance, and the pay department, accompany 
Major Munroe. 

The movement, by water, to Brazos Santiago, will be covered by the 
revenue cutter " Woodbury," Capt. Foster, whose commander has kindly 
placed her at my disposal for this service. 

All proper arrangements have been made by the staff departments for 



266 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

supplying the army on the route, as well as establishing a depot for its 
further wants at Point Isabel. 

I have deemed it proper to cause my "orders" No. 30 to be translated 
into Spanish, and circulated on the Rio Grande. Sixty copies have already 
been sent in advance of the army to Matamoros, Camargo, and Mier. 
This form of giving publicity to the spirit which actuates our movement 
in occupying the country, I thought preferable to a proclamation. I trust 
the order itself will meet the approval of the department. A few copies 
of the translation are herewith enclosed. 

I shall again communicate with general head quarters before 1 march, 
and I expect to do so at least once on the route. 

My head quarters will march with the rear brigade, but will soon pass 
to the advance of the army. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Quartel General Exercito de Ocupacion, 

Corpus Christi, 8de Marzo, de 1846. 

El exercito de ocupacion enTejas, estando ya para tomar posicion sobre 
la banda izquierda del Rio Grande, bajo las ordenes del Executivo de los 
Estados Unidos, el general en gefe, desea espresar la esperanza, que el 
movimiento sera provechoso a todos los interesados, y para cumplir exac- 
tamente con un fin tan laudable, ha mandado a todos de su mando, que 
mantengan, bajo la mas escrupuloso respecto, los derechos de los habi- 
tantes que se encuentren en ocupacion pacifico de sus respectivos avo- 
caciones, tanto sobre la banda izquierda, como la derecha del Rio Grande. 
Bajo ningun pretesto, ni de cualesquiera manera, se ha de entremeter en 
los derechos civiles, ni los privilegios religiosos de los habitantes ; pero 
siempre mantendra el mayor respecto a ambos. 

Cualesquiera cosa que se necesite, para el gasto del exercito, sera com- 
prado por el provedor, y pagado a los mejores precios. El general en gefe 
tiene la satisfaccion de deck, que tiene confianza en el patriotismo y la 
diciplina del exercito bajo su mando, y esta seguro de que sus ordenes 
seran obedecidos con la mayor exactitud. 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Bt. Bd. General en Gefe, exercito de los Estados Unidos. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 267 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Corpus Christi, Texas, March 11, 1846. 
Sir : — I have respectfully to report that the last column of the army 
marched this morning, to be followed by the head quarters in a few hours. 
I enclose a field return of the army, exhibiting its actual marching 
strength. Major Mun roe's company, which goes round by water, is not 
included. The weather continues favorable, and every thing promises 
well for our march. 

Please address me as usual, to the care of the quartermaster in New 
Orleans. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 
Camp at Los Pintos, route to Matamoros, 31 miles from 
Corpus Christi, March 12, 1846. 

Sir : — I respectfully report that the United States brig Porpoise arrived 
yesterday off Aransas. Her commander, Lieut. Hunt, has been ordered 
by Com. Conner to communicate with the army, and render us all the 
aid in his power. I gladly avail myself of this vessel, in conjunction 
with the cutter " Woodbury," to convoy our transports to Brazos Santiago., 
and assist Major Munroe's command in effecting a landing and establish 
ing a depot in that harbor. 

Com. Conner writes by the brig Porpoise from Vera Cruz, under date 
of March 2d. I enclose an extract of so much of his letter as relates 
to Mexican affairs. I have nothing of interest to communicate from the 
frontier, except the enclosed proclamation of General Canales, which, so 
far as I know, had not at the last advices been made public on the Rio 
Grande. It was put in my hands just as I was leaving Corpus Christi, or 
it would have been forwarded from that place. 

The different columns are advancing with great regularity, and without 
any obstacle worthy of note. I have passed the rear brigade, and hope 
to encamp to-morrow with Gen. Worth's, which is now fourteen miles in 
my advance. I shall overtake the cavalry before it reaches the Little Co- 
lorado. 



268 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



I have to acknowledge your communications of February 24th and 26th; 
your letter to Col. Twiggs of February 23d; the communications of Lieut. 
Garnett of January 29th and February 9th. returned as contrary to regula- 
tions; and "special orders" Nos. 12 to 15 inclusive. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, DC. 



[Extract.] 

U. S. Ship Falmouth, 

Off Vera Cruz, March 2, 1846. 
§ IR: ####*### 

As I have but little intercourse with the shore at this place, my means 
of obtaining information as to passing events are consequently very limited. 
From the papers published in the city of Mexico, I learn that Gen. Almonte 
has resigned the office of Minister of War and Marine, and has been suc- 
ceeded by Gen. Tornel. The government has been for some time endea- 
voring to obtain (but without success) a loan of nearly two millions of 
dollars, for which the property of the church was offered as security. 

The papers of the capital also state that within the last ten days a force 
of nearly eight thousand men, including a large portion of the garrison of 
Mexico, has marched for the northern frontier. I attach little credit to 
the statement. It is the general opinion here that the present state of 
affairs cannot last for any length of time. With the exception of the mili- 
tary, the recent revolution is received by all classes with much dissatis- 
faction. Even a union of the federalists with the Santa Annaists is spoken 
of as probable for the overthrow of the present party. 

Mr. Slidell is still at Jalapa ; and though unlikely as it may appear. I 
have it from very good authority that it is probable he will yet be received 
by the Mexican government. 

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

D. CONNER, 
Commanding Home Squadron. 

Brig. Gen. Z. Taylor, 

Commanding Army of Occupation, Texas. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN". TAYLOR. 269 

Antonio Canales, Brigadier General of the Republic of Mexico, 
colonel of active militia, and in command of an auxiliary regiment 
on the northern frontier. 

Citizens : — An arbitrary power has been established in Mexico, dero- 
gatory to our legally constituted authorities. One part of the army (or, if 
you like, the whole of it) has been the author of so scandalous an achieve- 
ment. Like the Praetorian guards, who destroyed the nationality of Rome, 
our soldiers have been made the arbitrators and regulators of the destinies 
of our country. Can you suffer this with supineness? The inhabitants 
of the northern frontier are not to be so persuaded. I am satisfied of their 
sentiments, and they will perish a thousand times before they will recog- 
nise a government without a national election, and without more authority 
to command, than the ephemeral and momentary triumph of his arms 
over the capiral of the republic. 

Citizens: This is worthless, as we have before seen — a council of gene- 
rals is not able to judge of the institutions of the country. These are not 
military crimes that the regulations will bring under their cognizance. 

More than this it is useless to say of the grievances of those unnatural 
soldiers who have turned their arms against their country. But if you 
are sensible of it, what necessity for explanations? Eloquence, and even 
language itself, is superfluous. No one knows the intenseness of grief 
better than him who suffers. By your efforts, you passed from a federal 
to a central government, under which you were promised the loftiest 
riches, glory, and respectability, but a mournful and very grievous expe- 
rience has convinced us that to nations once thus constituted, such a 
change, instead of benefits, has brought nothing but humiliation before 
strangers, misery, and, if we succumb, our slavery and that of our chil- 
dren. The federal constitution was sanctioned in 1824 by the constitu- 
tional Congress : let us turn and read its glorious manifest, and then hate 
more and more the authors of our disgrace. 

Let us then declare an eternal war to the death : thus should the people 
do who rise against their oppressors. Let our voice be unanimous : Li- 
berty, or death to our tyrants, and triumph will crown your efforts. 

This plan which I have this day announced to my regiment has no other 
object. To save Mexico or perish is our resolution. God will help us: for 
his providence only, in wrath, has given these tyrants dominion over us. 

These are the sentiments of the northern frontier, and those of your 

fellow-citizen and friend, 

ANTONIO CANALES. 
Camargo, February, 1846. 



270 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 
Camp at u El Sauce } " 119 miles from Corpus Christi, 
March 18, 1846. 
Sir : — I avail myself of a chance opportunity to Corpus Christi to report 
that I have advanced to this point with the cavalry and First brigade of 
Infantry. The Second brigade encamps to-night about seven miles in my 
rear ; the Third brigade about nineteen. I shall concentrate all my force 
on reaching the Little Colorado, thirteen miles in my front, so as to be 
prepared for any contingency. I am happy to say that all the corps of 
the army are in fine condition and spirits, equal to any service that may 
be before them. 

Within the last two days, our advance has met with small armed par- 
ties of Mexicans, who seemed disposed to avoid us. They were, doubt- 
less, thrown out to get information of our advance. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation. 
Camp three miles south of the Arroyo Colorado, 
March 21, 1846. 

Sir : — I respectfully report that my forces are now concentrated at this 
point, the Third brigade having joined me to-day. We are nearly north 
of Matamoros, and about thirty miles distant. 

The Arroyo Colorado is a salt river, or rather lagoon, nearly one hun- 
dred yards broad, and so deep as barely to be fordable. It would have 
formed a serious obstruction to our march had the enemy chosen to occupy 
its right bank, even with a small force. On the 19th, the advanced corps 
encamped within three miles of the ford, and a reconnoissance was pushed 
forward to the river. A party of irregular cavalry (rancheros) was dis- 
covered on the opposite bank, but threw no obstacle in the way of ex- 
amining the ford. They, however, signified to the officer charged with 
the reconnoissance, that it would be considered an act of hostility if we 
attempted to pass the river, and that we should, in that case, be treated 
as enemies. Under these circumstances, not knowing the amount of force 
that might be on the other bank, I deemed it prudent to make dispositions 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 271 

to pass the river under fire, for which please see my "orders" No. 33. 
At an early hour on the 20th, the cavalry and First brigade of Infantry 
were in position at the ford, the batteries of field artillery being so placed 
as to sweep the opposite bank. While these dispositions were in progress, 
the party that had shown themselves the day before again made their 
appearance. I sent Capt. Mansfisld to communicate with the officer in 
command, who said that he had positive orders to fire upon us if we 
attempted to cross the river. Another party then made its appearance, 
and passed the river to communicate with me. One of them (who was 
represented as the adjutant general of the Mexican troops) repeated sub- 
stantially what had been sent before, viz : that they had peremptory 
orders to fire upon us, and that it would be considered a declaration of 
war if we passed the river. He placed in my hands, at the same time, a 
proclamation of Gen. Mejia, issued at Matamoros a day or two previous, 
which I enclose. I informed the officer that I should immediately cross 
the river, and if any of his party showed themselves on the other bank 
after the passage was commenced, they would receive the fire of our 
artillery. In the mean time, the Second brigade, (which had encamped 
some miles in my rear) came up and formed on the extreme right. The 
crossing was then commenced and executed in the order prescribed. Not 
a shot was fired; and a reconnoissance of cavalry, sent immediately for- 
ward, discovered the party which had occupied the bank retreating in the 
direction of Matamoros. Agreeably to my orders, they were not molested. 
The cavalry and First and Second brigades of Infantry, with a train of 
two hundred wagons, crossed over and encamped at this point, three 
miles distant, at an early hour in the afternoon. 

I have thought proper to make a detailed report of this operation, as 
being the first occasion on which the Mexicans have shown themselves 
in an attitude decidedly hostile. It has also furnished an excellent op- 
portunity for the instruction of the troops, and for displaying their disci- 
pline and spirit, which, I am gratified to be able to say, were everything 
that could be desired. 

I am compelled to remain at this point until joined by the supply train 
of the Third brigade, which is unavoidably in the rear. On the 23d, at 
latest, I expect to resume the march, but am not fully decided as to the 
direction. While Matamoros is the point to be ultimately attained, it is 
necessary, at the same time, to cover our supplies, which will soon arrive 
at Point Isabel. 

From the best information I am able to obtain, the enemy is not in force 
on this side of the Rio Grande. A few rancheros are still on the route 
hence to Matamoros. It is believed that there may be nearly two thou- 



272 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

sand troops in that place, but what proportion of regular troops I cannot 
state with confidence. The arrival of. Gen. Ampudia is expected from 
the interior, but the accounts I receive of his movements are quite con- 
tradictory. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army. 

Washington, D. C. 



El General en Gefe de las fuerzas avanzadas sobre el enemigo, a 
los habitantes de este departamento y a las tropas de su mando. 

Conciudadanos : — La agregacion de] departamento de Tejas a los Esta- 
dos-Unidos, promovida y consumada por la tortuosa politica del gabinete 
del Norte, no satisface todavialos proyectos ambiciosos de los degenerados 
hijos de Washington. El mundo civilizado ha reconocido ya en aquel 
acto de usurpacion todos los caracteres de la injusticia, de la iniquidad,de 
la mas escandalosa violacion del derecho de gentes. Indelible es la 
mancha que oscurecera perpetuamenle las mentidas virtudes del pueblo 
norte-americano; y la posteridad vera con asombro la perfida conducta, 
la inmoralidad de los medios empleados para llevar a cabo la mas degra- 
dante depredacion. El derecho de conquista siempre ha sido un crimen 
contra la humanidad ; pero las naciones celosas de su dignidad y reputa- 
cion, han procurado siquiera cubrirlo con el brillo de las armas y el pres- 
tigio de la victoria. A los Estados-Unidos estaba reservado poner en prac- 
tica la disimulacion, el engano, las mas bajas insidias para apoderarse, en 
medio de la paz, del territorio de una nacion amiga, y honrosamente con- 
fiada en la fe de las promesas, en la solemnidad de los tratados. 

No se detiene sin embargo el gabinete del Norte en su carrera de usur- 
pacion. No es solamente el departamento de Tejas la presa a que aspira : 
su codicia se estiende hasta la rivera izquierda del Rio Bravo. El ejercito 
estacionado hace algun tiempo en Corpus-Cristi, avanza ya para tomar 
posesion de una gran parte de Tamaulipas; y su vanguard ia ha llegado 
hasta el Arroyo Colorado, punto distante catorce leguas de esta plaza. 
^Que esperanza queda, pues, a la republica mexicana de tratar con un 
enemigo, que al mismo tiempo de procurar adormecer abriendo negocia- 
ciones diplomaticas, procede a ocupar un territorio que nunca podia ser 
objeto de la cuestion pendiente? Los limites de Tejas son ciertos y re- 
conocidos: jamas han pasado del Rio de las Nueces; y sin embargo, el 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 273 

ejercito americano ha salvado la linea que separa a Tamaulipas de aquel 
departaraento. Aun cuando Mexico pudiera olvidar que los Estados-Uni- 
dos promovieron y auxiliaron la rebelion de los antigiios colonos, y que el 
principio de que un pueblo independiente tiene derecho para agregarse a 
otra nacion, no es aplicable al caso de haber sido esta la protectora de la 
independencia de aquel, con el objeto de admitirlo despues en su seno : 
aun cuando fuera dable aceptar como acsioma del derecho internacional, 
que la violacion de toda regla de moralidad y justicia puede servir de 
titulo legitimo de adquisicion ; todavia el territorio de Tamaulipas queda- 
ria fuera de la ley de agregacion, sancionada por el congreso americano, 
porque ella solo comprende a Tejas independiente. al terreno ocupado por 
la colonia sublevada, y de ninguna manera a otros departamentos, en que 
el gobierno mejicano ha ejercido sin interrupcion su legitima autoridad. 

Compatriotas : — Con un enemigo que no respeta ni sus propias leyes, 
que se burla sin pudor de los mismos principios que ha invocado ante el 
mundo entero para cohonestar sus miras ambiciosas, no nos queda otro 
recurso que el de las armas. Por fortuna siempre estamos dispuestos a 
empunarlas con gloria en defensa de la patria : poca es la sangre que corre 
por nuestras venas cuando se trata de derramarla para vindicar nuestro 
honor, para afianzar nuestra nacionalidad e independencia. Si al torrente 
devastador que nos amenaza es necessario oponer un dique de acero, lo 
formaran nuestras espadas, y en sus puntas agudas recogeran los invasores 
el fruto de su sonada conquista. Si las margenes del Panuco se han in- 
mortalizado con la derrota de un enemigo respetable y digno del valor 
mejicano : las orillas del Bravo seran testigos de la ignominia de los orgul- 
losos hijos del Norte, y sus profundas aguas serviran de sepulcro a los que 
osaren acercarse a ellas. La llama del patriotismo que arde en nuestros 
corazones recibira nuevo pabulo con la odiosa presencia de los conquista- 
dores ; y el eco de Dolores y de Iguala resonara con armonia en neustros 
oidos, al romper la marcha para oponer nuestros desnudos pechos a los 
rifles de los cazadores del Missisipi. 

Habitantes de la frontera : — No estamos abandonados a nuestros pro- 
pios recursos : el supremo gobierno vela infatigable por nuestra seguridad 
y salvacion. Un ejercito fuerte y aguerrido avanza rapidamente para tomar 
parte en la lucha ; y con su poderoso auxilio alcanzaremos la mas completa 
victoria. Pero mientras llega el anhelado dia de emprender la gran cam- 
pana para reconquistar todo el territorio usurpado, y que nuestras aguilas 
estiendan sus triunfantas alas sobre las margenes del Sabina ; nosotros que 
tenemos la gloria de encontramos al frente de los invasores debemos servir 
de barrera impenetrable. Nuestra obligacion es tan grande como sagrada: 

18 



274 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

no hay sacrificio que no debemos hacer en las aras de la patria. Se trata 
de defender los intereses mas caros al corazon del hombre : se trata de 
nuestro hogar domestico : se trata de nuestras costumbres : se trata de 
nuestro idioma : se trata de la augusta creencia que heredamos de nuestros 
antepasados. Todos estos inapreciables bienes desaparecerian, si los in- 
vasores Uegasen a afianzar su conquista. jY que mejicano digno de este 
nombre podra resignarse, sin combatir hasta la muerte, a ver degenerar su 
noble raza bajo la aborrecible dominacion del extrangero ? Ninguno : el 
elevado sentimiento del honor nacional domina en nuestros corazones; y 
desde los confines mas remotos de la republica volaran a conservarlo ileso, 
millares de heroes alentados con el ejemplo de Hidalgo y de Morelos. 

Soldados : — Ha sonado la hora del peligro : conoceis vuestro deber, y 
sabreis cumplirlo con lealtad y patriotismo. Tengo el honor de encon- 
trarme a vuestro frente, y estoy persuadido del ardor con que deseais el 
momento del combate. La conciencia de vuestra superioridad os asegura 
Ja mas esplendida victoria. Que avance. pues 7 el enemigo a quien deseais 
saludar en el campo de batalla : combatiremos, y la corona del triunfo sera 
el merecido premio de vuestro valor y diciplina. \A las armas ! jViva la 
■nation mejicana! jViva la independencia ! 

FRANCISCO MEJIA. 

Matamoros, Marzo 18, de 1846. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Point Isabel March 25, 1846. 

Sir : — I respectfully report, that I marched on the morning of the 23d 
instant with the entire army from the camp, near the Colorado, in the or- 
der prescribed in my order No. 35. herewith enclosed. After a march of 
fifteen miles, we reached, on the morning of the 24th, a point on the route 
from Matamoros to Point Isabel, eighteen miles from the former, and ten 
from the latter place. I here left the infantry brigades under Brigadier 
Gen. Worth, with instructions to proceed in the direction of Matamoros 
until he came to a suitable position for encampment, where he would halt, 
holding the route in observation, while I proceeded with the cavalry to 
this point to communicate with our transports, supposed to have arrived 
in the harbor, and make the necessary arrangements for the establishment 
and defence of a depot. 

While on my way hither, our column was approached by a party on its 
right flank, bearing a white flag. It proved to be a civil deputation from 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 275 

Matamoros, desiring an interview with me. I informed them that I would 
halt at the first suitable place on the road, and afford them the desired in- 
terview. It was, however, found necessary, from the want of water, to 
continue the route to this place. The deputation halted while yet some 
miles from Point Isabel, declining to come further, and sent me a formal 
protest of the prefect of the northern district of Tamaulipas against our 
occupation of the country, which I enclose herewith. At this moment, it 
was discovered that the buildings at Point Isabel were in flames. I then 
informed the bearer of the protest that I would answer it when opposite 
Matamoros, and dismissed the deputation. I considered the conflagration 
before my eyes as a decided evidence of hostility, and was not willing to 
be trifled with any longer, particularly as I had reason to believe that the 
prefect, in making this protest, was but a tool of the military authorities 
at Matamoros. 

The advance of the cavalry fortunately arrived here in season to arrest 
the fire, which consumed but three or four houses. The port captain, who 
committed the act under the orders, it is said, of Gen. Mejia, had made 
his escape before its arrival. We found two or three inoffensive Mexicans 
here, the rest having left for Matamoros. 

I was gratified to find that the water expedition had exactly answered 
to our land movement — the steamers arriving in the harbour only two or 
three hours before we reached Point Isabel, with the other transports close 
in their rear. The "Porpoise" and " Lawrence," brigs of war, and cutter 
"Woodbury," are lying outside. I have thought it necessary to order 
Capt. Porter's company to this place, to reinforce Major Munroe. Out- 
great depot must be here, and it is very important to secure it against any 
enterprise of the enemy. The engineer officers are now examining the 
ground with a view to tracing lines of defence and strengthening the po- 
sition. 

As soon as a sufficient amount of supplies can be thrown forward to- 
ward Matamoros, I shall march in the direction of that town and occupy 
a position as near it as circumstances will permit. 

I enclose a sketch prepared by my aid-de-camp, Lieut. Eaton, exhibit- 
ing the route of march since leaving the Colorado, and the bearings of im- 
portant points. 

I am, sir. very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washiirgton, D. C. 



276 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

(Original. $ 

Prefectura del Norte de Tamaulipas. 

Aunque la cuestion pendiente sobre agregacion del departamento de 
Tejas a los E. U., se encuentra sujeta a la resolucion del gobierno supremo 
Mejicano, el hecho de haber avanzado el ejercito que se halla a las ordenes 
de V. S., traspasando la linea que ocupaba en Corpus Cristi, me pone en 
la obligacion como prima autoridad politica del distrito del Norte de Ta- 
maulipas de dirigirme a V. S. como tengo el honor de verificarlo por me- 
dio de la comision que pondra esta nota en sus manos, manifestandole : 
que alarmados justamente los pueblos que dependen de esta prefectura 
con la invacion de un ejercito que sin previa deciaracion de guerra, y sin 
anunciar explicitamente el objeto que se propone, viene ocupando un ter- 
ritorio que nunca ha pertenecido a la colonia sublevada, no han podido 
ver con indiferencia un procedimiento tan contrario a la conducta que 
observan las naciones civilizadas y a los principios mas claros del derecho 
de gentes : que dirigidos por el honor y patriotismo, y ciertos de que nada 
se ha dicho oficialmente por el gabinete de la Union al gobierno Mejicano, 
respecto a ensanchar los limites de Tejas hasta la orilla izquierda del Rio 
Bravo, y que confiados los ciudadanos de este distrito en la notoria justicia 
de ser causa y en uso del derecho natural de la defenza ; protestan por un 
organo de la manera mas solemne que ni ahora ni en tiempo alguno con- 
sienten, ni consentiran en separarse de la republica Mejieana y unirse a la 
de los E. U. del Norte, y que se encuentran resueltos a llevar a cabo esta 
iirme determinacion, resistiendo hasta donde alcansen sus fuerzas siempre 
y cuando el ejercito que marcha a las ordenes de V. S., no retroceda a 
ocupar sus antiguas posiciones; pues permaneciendo en el territorio de 
Tamaulipas deben considerar sus habitantes, que cualquiera que sean las 
proteslas sobre la paz con que viene convidando, por parte de V. S. se han 
roto abiertamente las hostilidades, cuyas lamentablesconsecuenciasseran 
ante el mundo entero de la esclusiva responsabilidad de los invasores. 

Tengo el honor de decirlo a V. S. con el fin indicado, manifestandole mi 
consideracion y aprecio. 

Dios y Libertad. Santa Rita, Marzo 23, de 1846. 

JENES CARDENAS. 
P. E. S. : Juan Jose Pineda. 

Sr. Gen. Don Z. Taylor. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 277 

[Extract.] 

Camp on the left bank of the Rio Grande, 

Opposite Matamoros, March 29, 1846. 

Sir : — I have the honor to report that I arrived at this camp yesterday 
with the forces under my command, no resistance having been offered to 
my advance to the banks of the river, nor any act of hostility committed 
by the Mexicans, except the capture of two of our dragoons, sent forward 
from the advanced guard. I deem it possible that these two men may 
have deserted to the enemy, as one of them, at least, bears a bad charac- 
ter. Our approach seems to have created much excitement in Matamoros, 
and a great deal of activity has been displayed since our arrival in the 
preparation of batteries. The left bank is now under reconnoissance cf 
our engineer officers, and I shall lose no time in strengthening our posi- 
tion by such defensive works as may be necessary, employing for that 
purpose a portion of the heavy guns brought round by sea. 

The attitude of the Mexicans is so far decidedly hostile. An interview 
has been held, by my direction, with the military authorities in Matamo- 
ros, but with no satisfactory result. 

Under this state of things, I must again and urgently call your atten- 
tion to the necessity of speedily sending recruits to this army. 

The militia of Texas are so remote from the border * * * * 
that we cannot depend upon their aid. 

The strength gained by filling up the regiments here, even to the pre- 
sent feeble establishment, would be of very great importance. 

I respectfully enclose a field report of the force now in this camp. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, B.C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp on the left bank of the Rio Grande, 

Opposite Matamoros, Texas, April 6, 1846. 
Sir : I have to report no material change in the aspect of affairs here since 
my despatch of the 29th ult. The Mexicans still retain a hostile attitude, and 
have thrown up some works, evidently designed to prevent us from crossing 
the river. From information on which I can rely, these works are scantily 
armed with guns of inferior caliber, and would oppose very feeble obstacles 
in case the turn of affairs should carry our operations to the other bank. 



278 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

On our side a battery for four eighteen^-pounders will be completed, and 
the guns placed in battery, to-day. These guns bear directly upon the 
public square of Matamoros, and within good range for demolishing the 
town. Their object cannot be mistaken by the enemy, and will, I think, 
effectually restrain him from any enterprises upon our side of the river. 
A strong bastioned field fort, for a garrison of five hundred men, has been 
laid out by the engineers in rear of the battery, and will be commenced 
immediately. This work will enable a brigade to maintain this position 
against any Mexican odds, and will leave me free to dispose of the other 
corps as considerations of health and convenience may render desirable. 

The two dragoons that were taken prisoners, as reported in my commu- 
nication of the 29th ultimo, have been returned by Gen. Mejia, upon my 
application ; but no further intercourse has been carried on with the au- 
thorities on the other side since my last despatch. Efforts are continually 
making to entice our men to desert, and, I regret to say, have met with 
considerable success. Four, however, have been drowned in swimming 
the river, and two have been killed by our pickets while attempting to 
desert, which has operated to check the practice. A majority of those 
who have deserted are old offenders. 

I respectfully enclose the minutes of an interview held on the day of 
our arrival, between Gen. Worth and Gen. de la Vega, the second in com- 
mand in Matamoros. I deemed it proper and respectful to announce 
formally the purpose of our advance to the Rio Grande, and afford an op- 
portunity to establish friendly relations, if practicable. You will perceive 
that the Mexican authorities persist in considering our march as an act of 
war in itself; and I believe they would so treat it. and attempt to drive us 
from our position, if they felt sufficient confidence in their strength. 

I have no very accurate information as to the number of regular troops 
in Matamoros, but I am quite confident that it does not reach two thou- 
sand, and they of very bad description, and miserably armed. We hear 
that Gen. Ampudia is daily expected, and that they are only waiting his 
arrival with heavy reinforcements, to attack us. The position of our 
camp is naturally strong, and, without the aid of artificial defences, I feel 
quite secure against any offensive movement of the enemy. 

We have no news upon which we can depend from the interior of 
Mexico, the last authentic date being still March 2, from Vera Cruz. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A. } commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 279 

Minutes of an interview between Brig. Gen. TV. J. Worth, United 
States army, and Gen. Romulo Vega, of the Mexican army, held 
on the right bank of the Rio Grande, 28th March, 1846. 

On exhibiting a white flag on the left bank of the Rio Grande, a boat, 
with two officers, (represented as cavalry officers.) with an interpreter, 
the same who appeared at the crossing of the Colorado, and a fourth per- 
son, crossed from the right bank of the river. 

It was stated through an interpreter (Mr. Mitchell) that a general offi- 
cer of the United States army had been sent by his commanding general 
with despatches to the commanding general at Matamoros, and the civil 
authorities, and an interview requested. 

After some conversation explanatory of the above, the Mexican party 
re-crossed the river to report to the commanding general at Matamoros, 
and return with his reply. An open note for the American consul in Ma- 
tamoros, with an endorsement on the back in pencil, was delivered to the 
Mexican officer by Gen. Worth, who replied that he should hand it to the 
commanding general. "Certainly, of course," was Gen. Worth's remark 
in reply. 

On the return of the same party, Gen. Mejia sent word that, if the 
commanding general of the American forces desired a conference with the 
commanding general of the Mexican forces, it would readily be com- 
plied with; but, as the American commander had designated a subordi- 
nate officer to meet Gen. Mejia, the commanding officer of the Mexican 
forces, Gen. Mejia, could not entertain such a proposition, but that an offi- 
cer of corresponding rank and position in the Mexican forces would be 
designated to receive any communication sent by Gen. Taylor. 

It was perceived that the relation of the parties was misapprehended, 
they supposing that a conference was requested ; this was corrected im- 
mediately, and it was reiterated that Gen. Worth was merely the bearer 
of despatches, with authority to relate verbally certain matters of interest 
to the commanding general at Matamoros. 

The proposition of Gen. Mejia was then acceded to, with the remark 
that this was a mere question of form, which should not be permitted to 
interfere with any arrangements necessary to the continuance of the 
friendly relations now existing between the two governments. 

The Mexican party returned to the right bank, and, after a short ab- 
sence, returned, stating that Gen. Romulo Vega would receive Gen. 
Worth on the right bank of the river, (their own proposition) for the re- 
ception of any communication which Gen. Worth might have to make 
from the commanding general. 



280 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Gen. Worth then crossed the river, accompanied by Lieut. Smith, A. D. C, 
Lieutenants Magruder, Deas, and Blake, attached to his staff, together with 
Lieut. Knowlton as interpreter. 

On arriving at the right bank of the river, Gen. Worth was received by 
Gen. Vega with becoming courtesy and respect, and introduced to "the 
authorities of Matamoros," represented in the person of the Licenciado 
Casares. 

On the Mexican part were present Gen. Vega, the Licenciado Casares, 
two officers, (represented as cavalry officers,) an interpreter, with a person 
named Juan N. Garza, official de Defensores. 

After the usual courtesies on meeting, it was stated by Gen. Worth 
that he was bearer of despatches from the commanding general of the 
American forces to Gen. Mejia and the civil authorities of Matamoros; a 
written and unsealed document was produced, and Gen. Vega desiring to 
know its contents, it was carefully read and translated into Spanish by the 
Mexican interpreter. 

Gen. Vega then stated that he had been directed to receive such com- 
munications as Gen. Worth might present from his commanding general, 
going on to say that the march of the United States troops through a part 
of the Mexican territory (Tamaulipas) was considered as an act of war. 

Gen. Worth. — I am well aware that some of the Mexican people con- 
sider it an aggressive act, but — (interrupted by the Mexican interpreter, 
and after a slight discussion of the international question on the part of 
Gen. Vega) — Gen. Worth repeated the above remark, adding that it was 
not so considered by his government ; that the army had been ordered 
there by his government, and there it would remain ; whether rightfully 
or otherwise, that was a matter to be settled between the two govern- 
ments. Gen. Vega, still disposed to argue the merits of the case, was 
told by Gen. Worth that he came to state facts, not to argue them. 

Gen. Worth here stated that he had been sent with a despatch from his 
commanding general to Gen. Mejia ; that Gen. Mejia had refused to receive 
it from him in person ; adding, with emphasis, and some degree of warmth, 
"I now state that I withdraw this despatch," having read it merely as an 
act of courtesy to Gen. Vega: that, in addition to the written despatch to 
Gen. Mejia, I am authorised to express verbally the sentiments with which 
the commanding general proposed to carry out the instructions of his 
government, in which he hoped to preserve the peaceable relations be- 
tween the two governments, leaving all questions between the two coun- 
tries to be settled by their respective governments; and if, hereafter, Gen. 
Mejia wished to communicate with Gen. Taylor, he, Gen. Mejia, must 
propose the means, assuring Gen. Vega that, should Gen. Mejia present 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 281 

himself or his communications by a subaltern officer, in either case they 
would be received with becoming courtesy and hospitality. 

The question of right of territory was again opened by Gen. Vega, who 
asked how the United States government would view the matter should 
the Mexican troops march into or occupy a portion of the territory of the 
United States ? 

Gen. Worth replied that Gen. Vega might probably be familiar with 
the old proverb, " Sufficient for the day is the evil thereof," and that it 
would be time enough to reply to such a proposition when the act itself 
was perpetrated. 

This proverb did not appear to have been translated by the Mexican 
interpreter, but was received by Gen. Vega with a smile and slight shrug. 

Gen. Worth. — Is the American consul in arrest, or in prison % 

Gen. Vega. — No. 

Gen. Worth. — Is he now in the exercise of his proper functions'? 

Gen. Vega, after apparently consulting with the Licenciado Casares for 
a moment, replied that he was. 

Gen. Worth. — Then, as an American officer, in the name of my govern- 
ment, and my commanding general. I demand an interview with the con- 
sul of my country. (No reply.) 

Gen. Worth. — Has Mexico declared war against the United States ? 

Gen. Vega. — No. 

Gen. Worth. — Are the two countries still at peace'? 

Gen. Vega. — Yes. 

Gen. Worth. — Then I again demand an interview with the consul of 
my r government, in Matamoros ; in the presence, of course, of these gen- 
tlemen, or any other that the commanding general in Matamoros may be 
pleased to designate. 

Gen. Vega reiterated that the consul was in the proper exercise of his 
functions; that he was not in arrest, nor were any other Americans in 
arrest in Matamoros; that he would submit the demand to Gen. Mejia, 
adding that he thought there would be great difficulty. 

This demand was repeatedly made in the most emphatic manner, and a 
reply requested : Gen. Vega stating the consul continued in the exercise 
of his functions, and that Gen. Worth's demand would be submitted to 
Gen. Mejia. 

Here the interview was suspended, while the Licenciado left the party 
to submit (as was understood) the demand for an interview with the con- 
sul to Gen. Mejia. While engaged in friendly intercourse, Gen. Worth 
stated to Gen. Vega, in an informal manner, as an evidence of the good 
faith, intentions, and disposition of his commanding general, that he, Gen. 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Taylor, was well aware of the importance of Brazos Santiago to the com- 
merce and business community of Matamoros ; that he respected their 
laws and customs, and would freely grant entrance and exit to all Mexican 
and other vessels trading with Matamoros on the same terms as before its 
occupation by the United States, leaving all questions arising therefrom to 
be settled hereafter by the two governments. 

At the expiration of about a quarter of an hour, the Licenciado Casares 
returned and reported that Gen. Mejia would not accede to the request 
for an interview on the part of Gen. Worth ; saying nothing, however, 
relative to the question of the consul. 

Gen. Vega was then again informed that the despatch intended to be 
delivered to Gen. Mejia by Gen. Worth, in person, would be returned by 
him, Gen. W., to his commanding general, considering any other disposi- 
tion of it as disrespectful to him; repeating that it had been read to Gen. 
Vega as an act of courtesy to him, and that Gen. Mejia must take his own 
measures of communicating with Gen. Taylor, adding that whether Gen. 
Mejia should send a superior or subaltern officer to Gen. Taylor, at all 
times accessible, he would be received with becoming courtesy and hos- 
pitality. Gen. Worth then presented a written and sealed document for 
the civil authorities of Matamoros. which was received by Gen. Vega and 
immediately transferred to the Licenciado Casares. 

Gen. Vega. — Is it the intention of Gen. Taylor to remain with his army 
on the left bank of the Rio Grande ? 

Gen. Worth. — Most assuredly, and there to remain until directed other- 
wise by his government. 

Gen. Vega remarked that " we" felt indignation at seeing the American 
flag placed on the Rio Grande, a portion of the Mexican territory. 

Gen. Worth replied, that was a matter of taste; notwithstanding, there 
it would remain. The army had been ordered to occupy its present posi- 
tion by its government : it has come in a peaceable rather than belligerent 
attitude, with a determination to respect the rights and customs of those 
on the right bank of the Rio Grande, while it offers protection to all on the 
left bank within the territory of the United States. 

No reply having been received from Gen. Vega relative to the demand 
for an interview w r ith the American consul, the question was again intro- 
duced by Gen. Worth, and the demand for the last time reiterated. 

Gen. Vega then promptly refused to comply with the demand, replying, 
without waiting for the interpretation, "No, no." 

Gen. Worth. — I have now to state that a refusal of my demand to see 
the American consul is regarded as a belligerent act ; and, in conclusion, I 
have to add, the commanding general of the American forces on the left 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 283 

bank of the river will regard the passage of any armed party of Mexicans 
in hostile array across the Rio Grande as an act of war, and pursue it ac- 
cordingly. 

The interview here terminated, and Gen. Worth and staff returned to 
the left bank of the river. 

The above is the substance of the interview between Generals Worth 
and Vega; is a fair statement of the conversation ; and, as nearly as pos- 
sible, stating the exact words and expressions used on the occasion. 
M. KNOWLTON, 

First Lieut. First Artillery. 
J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, 

First Lieut. First Artillery, acting A. D. C. 
ED. DEAS ? 

First Lieut. Fourth Artillery. 
J. EDMD. BLAKE, 

First Lieut. Top. Eng. 
LARKIN SMITH, 

First Lieut, and A. D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, Texas, April 15, 1846. 

Sir : — I have to report that on the 1 1th instant, Gen. Ampudia arrived at 
Matamoros with two hundred cavalry, the remainder of his force, variously 
estimated from two thousand to three thousand men, being some distance 
in rear on the route from Monterey. Immediately after assuming the 
chief command, Gen. Ampudia ordered all Americans to leave Matamoros 
within twenty-four hours, and repair to Victoria, a town in the interior of 
Tamaulipas. He had taken the same severe measure at Reinosa, on his 
way hither. On the 12th I received from Gen. Ampudia a despatch, sum- 
moning me to withdraw my force within twenty-four hours, and to fall 
back beyond the river Nueces. To this communication I replied on the 
12th, saying that I should not retrogade from my position. Copies of this 
correspondence are enclosed herewith. I considered the letter of Gen. 
Ampudia sufficient to warrant me in blocking up the Rio Grande, and 
stopping all supplies for Matamoros, orders for which have been given to 
the naval commander at Brazos Santiago. 

Notwithstanding the alternative of war presented by Gen. Ampudia, no 
hostile movement has yet been made by his force. Whether he will feel 
strong enough to attempt anything when all his force shall arrive, is very 



284 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

doubtful. Our brigades occupy strong positions, beyond reach of fire from 
the town, and can hold themselves against many times their number of 
Mexican troops. In the mean time our defences here and at Point Isabel 
are daily gaining strength. The latter point is well supplied with artillery, 
and in a good condition to resist attack. 

I regret to report that Col. Cross has been missing since the 10th instant, 
on which day he rode out alone in the vicinity of our camp. All attempts 
to trace him have hitherto proved fruitless, and I much fear that he has 
been waylaid and murdered by banditti known to be in our neighborhood. 
To-day I addressed a letter on the subject to Gen. Ampudia, desiring him 
to assist in our efforts to ascertain the colonel's fate. 

I shall authorise the raising of two companies of Texan mounted men, 
for service in this quarter, particularly for the purpose of keeping open our 
communication with Point Isabel, and relieving the regular cavalry of a 
portion of their duties, which are now oppressive. 

Several resignations of officers have been tendered since our arrival here. 
While I regret that such has been the case, I have still deemed it my duty 
to throw no obstacle in the way of their acceptance. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



[Translation.] 

Fourth Military Division.") 
General-in-Chief, y 

To explain to you the many grounds for the just grievances felt by the 
Mexican nation, caused by the United States government, would be a loss 
of time, and an insult to your good sense; I therefore pass at once to such 
explanations as I consider of absolute necessity. 

Your government, in an incredible manner — you will even permit me 
to say an extravagant one, if the usage or general rules established and 
received among all civilised nations are regarded — has not only insulted, 
but has exasperated the Mexican nation, bearing its conquering banner to 
the left bank of the Rio Bravo del Norte ; and in this case, by explicit and 
definitive orders of my government, which neither can, will, nor should 
receive new outrages, I require you in all form, and at latest in the per- 
emptory term of twenty-four hours, to break up your camp and retire to 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 285 

the other bank of the Nueces river, while our governments are regulating 
the pending question in relation to Texas. If you insist in remaining upon 
the soil of the department of Tamaulipas, it will clearly result that arms, 
and arms a]one, must decide the question ; and in that case I advise you 
that we accept the war to which, with so much injustice on your part, you 
provoke us, and that, on our part, this war shall be conducted conformably 
to the principles established by the most civilised nations, that is to say, 
that the law of nations and of war shall be the guide of my operations; 
trusting that on your part the same will be observed. 

With this view, I tender you the considerations due to your person and 
respectable office. 

God and Liberty ! 

Head Quarters at Matamoros, 2 o'clock, P. M., April 12, 1846. 

PEDRO DE AMPUDIA. 

Sr. General-in-Chief of the United States Army, 
Don Z. Taylor. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, Texas, April 12, 1846. 

Senor : — I have had the honor to receive your note of this date, in which 
you summon me to withdraw the forces under my command from their 
present position, and beyond the river Nueces, until the pending ques- 
tion between our governments, relative to the limits of Texas, shall be 
settled. 

I need hardly advise you that, charged as I am, in only a military capa- 
city, with the performance of specific duties, I cannot enter into a discus- 
sion of the international question involved in the advance of the American 
army. You will, however, permit me to say that the government of the 
United States has constantly sought a settlement, by negotiation, of the 
question of boundary ; that an envoy was despatched to Mexico for that 
purpose, and that up to the most recent dates said envoy had not been 
received by the actual Mexican government, if indeed he has not received 
his passports and left the republic. In the mean time, I have been ordered 
to occupy the country up to the left bank of the Rio Grande, until the 
boundary shall be definitively settled. In carrying out these instructions I 
have carefully abstained from all acts of hostility, obeying, in this regard, 
not only the letter of my instructions, but the plain dictates of justice and 
humanity. 

The instructions under which I am acting will not permit me to retro- 



286 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

grade from the position I now occupy. In view of the relations between 
our respective governments; and the individual suffering which may result, 
I regret the alternative which you offer; but, at the same time, wish it 
understood that I shall by no means avoid such alternative, leaving the 
responsibility with those who rashly commence hostilities. In conclusion, 
you will permit me to give the assurance that on my part the laws and 
customs of war among civilised nations shall be carefully observed. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant. 

Sr. Gen. D. Pedro de Ampudia. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, Texas, April 26, 1846. 

Sir: — I have respectfully to report that Gen. Arista arrived in Mata- 
moros on the 24th instant, and assumed the chief command of the Mexi- 
can troops. On the same day he addressed me a communication, con- 
ceived in courteous terms, but saying that he considered hostilities com- 
menced, and should prosecute them. A translation of his note, and copy 
of my reply, will be transmitted the moment they can be prepared. I 
despatch this by an express which is now waiting. 

I regret to report that a party of dragoons, sent out by me on the 24th 
instant, to watch the course of the fiver above on this bank, became en- 
gaged with a very large force of the enemy, and after a short affair, in 
which some sixteen were killed and wounded, appear to have been sur- 
rounded and compelled to surrender. Not one of the party has returned, 
except a wounded man sent in this morning by the Mexican commander, 
so that I cannot report with confidence the particulars of the engagement, 
or the fate of the officers, except that Capt. Hardee was known to be a 
prisoner, and unhurt. Capt. Thornton, and Lieutenants Mason and Kane, 
were the other officers. The party was sixty-three strong. 

Hostilities may now be considered as commenced, and I have this day 
deemed it necessary to call upon the governor of Texas for four regiments 
of volunteers, two to be mounted and two to serve as foot. As some delay 
must occur in collecting these troops, I have also desired the governor of 
Louisiana to send out four regiments of infantry as soon as practicable. 
This will constitute an auxiliary force of nearly five thousand men. which 
will be required to prosecute the war with energy, and carry it. as it should 
be, into the enemy's country. I trust the department will approve my 
course in this matter, and will give the necessary orders to the staff de- 
partments for the supply of this large additional force. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 287 

If a law could be passed authorising the President to raise volunteers 
for twelve months, it would be of the greatest importance for a service so 
remote from support as this. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A. } commanding. 
The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, April 23, 1846. 

Sir: — I have to report that, since my despatch of the 15th instant, the 
relations between me and the Mexicans have not been changed. Gen. 
Ampudia remains in command in Matamoros, though it may be re- 
garded as certain that he is no longer in chief command on the frontier. 
I have reason to believe that Arista has succeeded to the command — whe- 
ther by orders from the central government, or, as is reported, in conse- 
quence of a movement among the troops themselves, I have not the means 
of ascertaining. Gen. Arista is said to be expected hourly in Matamoros. 

In my last despatch I advised you that, on receipt of Gen. Ampudia's 
summons to fall back from my position, I ordered a blockade of the mouth 
of the Rio Grande, deeming this a measure perfectly proper under the 
circumstances, and, at the same time, the most efficient means of letting 
the Mexican commander understand that this state of quasi war was not 
to be interpreted to his advantage only, while we reaped the inconveni- 
ences attending it. On the 17th instant, pursuant to my instructions, 
Lieut. Renshaw, of the navy, warned off two American schooners about to 
enter the river with provisions. Yesterday, I received from Gen. Ampu- 
dia a communication on the subject, a translation of which, and my reply, 
are herewith transmitted. I trust that my course in this matter will meet 
the approval of the department. It will, at any rate, compel the Mexicans 
either to withdraw their army from Matamoros, where it cannot be sub- 
sisted, or to assume the offensive on this side of the river. 

You will perceive from my "orders," No. 50, that the fate of Col. Cross 
has been ascertained. His body was discovered in the forest about four 
miles from this camp, and with marks of violence, leaving no doubt that 
he was robbed and cruelly murdered. I deem it best not to detail the 
various rumors which have been current in regard to the particulars of his 
death, as nothing conclusive can be gathered from them. I am willing, 



OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

for the present, to believe that it was the act of robbers, not authorised by 
the Mexican general. I enclose a translation of the answer of Gen. Am- 
pudia to my inquiry concerning Col. Cross. 

With a view to check the depredations of small parties of Mexicans on 
this side of the river, Lieutenants Dobbins, Third Infantry, and Porter, 
Fourth Infantry, were authorised by me a few days since to scour the 
country for some miles with a select party of men, and capture or destroy 
any such parties that they might meet. It appears that they separated, 
and that Lieut. Porter, at the head of his own detachment, surprised a 
Mexican camp, drove away the men and took possession of their horses. 
Soon afterwards, there fell a heavy rain, and, at a moment when the party 
seem to have been quite unprepared for an attack, they were fired upon 
from the thicket. In attempting to return it, the muskets missed fire, and 
the party dispersed in the thicket. The men have gradually found their 
way back to camp, with the exception of one, who, with Lieut. Porter, is 
still missing. From the statements of the men who have returned, there 
can be little doubt but that both were killed. A party is now out in search 
of them, and I hope, on its return, to be able to communicate something 
more definite. 

I have also to report that Lieut. Deas, Fourth Artillery, crossed the river 
on the night of the 13th instant, and was immediately taken up by the 
Mexican guard. He is now a prisoner of war at Matamoros. It is sup- 
posed that he was laboring under mental alienation at the time he com- 
mitted this unfortunate act. Be this as it may, as he voluntarily placed 
himself in the hands of the enemy, I shall make no effort to reclaim him 
at present. It is understood that he is well treated, though under restraint. 

The field work is now in a condition of defence, and is approaching 
rapidly to completion. 

The recruits under Lieut. Paul arrived on the 21st instant. Of the 
fifty-six for the general service, forty-one have been assigned to the batte- 
ries of field artillery, filling up those companies ; the remaining fifteen, to 
the Fourth Infantry. The descriptive roll will be completed and forward- 
ed as soon as the prescribed inspections are made. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

The Adjutant General of the Army, 

Washington, D. C. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 289 



[Translation.] 

Division of the North,") 
Second General-in-Chief, j 

From various sources, worthy of confidence, I have learned that some 
vessels, bound for the mouth of the river, have not been able to effect an 
entrance into that port, in consequence of your orders that they should be 
conducted to Brazos Santiago. The cargo of one of them is composed in 
great part, and of the other entirely, of provisions, which the contractors 
charged with providing for the army under my orders had procured, to 
fulfil the obligations of their contracts. You have taken possession of 
these provisions by force, and against the will of the proprietors, one of 
whom is vice-consul of her Catholic Majesty, and the other of her Britan- 
nic Majesty ; and whose rights, in place of being religiously respected, as 
was preferred, and as was to be hoped from the observance of the princi- 
ples which govern among civilised nations, have, on the contrary, been 
violated in the moi>t extraordinary manner, opposed to the guarantee and 
respect due to private property. 

Nothing can have authorised you in such a course. The commerce of 
nations is not suspended or interrupted, except in consequence of a solemn 
declaration of blockade, communicated and established in the form pre- 
scribed by international law. Nevertheless, you have infringed these 
rules; and, by an act which can never be viewed favorably to the United 
States government, have hindered the entrance to a Mexican port of ves- 
sels bound to it, under the confidence that commerce would not be inter- 
rupted. My duties do not allow me to consent to this new species of 
hostility, and they constrain me to require of you, not only that the ves- 
sels taken by force to Brazos Santiago shall be at liberty to return to the 
mouth of the river, but the restoration of all the provisions which, be- 
sides belonging to private contractors, were destined for the troops on this 
frontier. I consider it useless to inculcate the justice of this demand, 
and the results which may follow an unlooked-for refusal. 

I have also understood that two Mexicans, carried down in a boat by 
the current of the river near one of the advanced posts of your camp, 
were detained, after being fired upon, and that they are still kept and 
treated as prisoners. The individuals in question do not belong to the 
army, and this circumstance exempts them from the laws of war. I 
therefore hope that you will place them absolutely at liberty, as I cannot 
be persuaded that you pretend to extend to persons not military the con- 
sequences of an invasion, which, without employing this means of rigor 

19 



290 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



against unarmed citizens, is marked in» itself with the seal of universal 
reprobation. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to assure you of my distinguished 
consideration. 

God and Liberty! Matamoros, April 22, 1846. 

PEDRO DE AMPUDIA. 

Sr. Gen. D. Z. Taylor. 



Head Quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Matamoros, Texas, April 22, 1846. 

Sir: — I have had the honor to receive your communication of this date, 
in which you complain of certain measures adopted by my order to close 
the mouth of the Rio Bravo against vessels bound to Matamoros, and in 
which you also advert to the case of two Mexicans supposed to be detain- 
ed as prisoners in this camp. 

After all that ha* passed since the American army first approached the 
Rio Bravo, I am certainly surprised that you should complain of a measure 
which is no other than the natural result of the state of war so much in- 
sisted upon by the Mexican authorities as actually existing at this time. 
You will excuse me for recalling a few circumstances, to show that this 
state of war has not been sought by the American army, but has been 
forced upon it, and that the exercise of the rights incident to such a state 
cannot be made a subject of complaint. 

On breaking up my camp at Corpus Christi, and moving forward with 
the army under my orders to occupy the left bank of the Rio Bravo, it was 
my earnest desire to execute my instructions in a pacific manner ; to ob- 
serve the utmost regard for the personal rights of all citizens residing on 
the left bank of the river, and to take care that the religion and customs 
of the people should suffer no violation. With this view, and to quiet the 
minds of the inhabitants, I issued orders to the army, enjoining a strict 
observance of the rights and interests of all Mexicans residing on the 
river, and caused said orders to be translated into Spanish, and circulated 
in the several towns on the Bravo. These orders announced the spirit in 
which we proposed to occupy the country, and I am proud to say that up 
to this moment the same spirit has controlled the operations of the army. 
On reaching the Arroyo Colorado I was informed by a Mexican officer 
that the order in question had been received in Matamoros, but was told 
at the same time that if I attempted to cross the river it would be regard- 
ed as a declaration of war. Again, on my march to Frontone I was met 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 291 

by a deputation of the civil authorities of Matamoros, protesting against 
my occupation of a portion of the department of Tamaulipas, and declar- 
ing that if the army was not at once withdrawn, war would result. While 
this communication was in my hands, it was discovered that the village 
of Frontone had been set on fire and abandoned. I viewed this as a 
direct act of war, and informed the deputation that their communication 
would be answered by me when opposite Matamoros, which was done in 
respectful terms. On reaching the river I despatched an officer, high in 
rank, to convey to the commanding general in Matamoros the expression 
of my desire for amicable relations, and my willingness to leave open to 
the use of the citizens of Matamoros the port of Brazos Santiago until the 
question of boundary should be definitively settled. This officer received 
for reply, from the officer selected to confer with him, that my advance 
to the Rio Bravo was considered as a veritable act of war, and he was ab- 
solutely refused an interview with the American consul, in itself an act 
incompatible with a state of peace. Notwithstanding these repeated as- 
surances on the part of the Mexican authorities, and notwithstanding the 
most obviously hostile preparations on the right bank of the river, accom- 
panied by a rigid non-intercourse, I carefully abstained from any act of 
hostility — determined that the onus of producing an actual state of hosti- 
lities should not rest with me. Our relations remained in this state until 
I had the honor to receive your note of the 12th instant, in which you 
denounce war as the alternative of my remaining in this position. As I 
could not, under my instructions, recede from my position, I accepted the 
alternative you offered, and made all my dispositions to meet it suitably. 
But, still willing to adopt milder measures before proceeding to others, I 
contented myself in the first instance with ordering a blockade of the 
mouth of the Rio Bravo by the naval forces under my orders — a proceed- 
ing perfectly consonant with the state of war so often declared to exist, 
and which you acknowledge in your note of the 16th instant, relative to 
the late Col. Cross. If this measure seem oppressive, I wish it borne in 
mind that it has been forced upon me by the course you have seen fit to 
adopt. I have reported this blockade to my government, and shall not 
remove it until I receive instructions to that effect, unless indeed you de- 
sire an armistice pending the final settlement of the question between the 
governments, or until war shall be formally declared by either, in which 
case I will cheerfully open the river. In regard to the consequences you 
mention as resulting from a refusal to remove the blockade, I beg you to 
understand that I am prepared for them, be they what they may. 

In regard to the particular vessels referred to in your communication, I 

have the honor to advise you that, in pursuance of my orders, two Ameri- 

f 



292 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

can schooners, bound for Matamoros, were warned off on the 17th instant, 
when near the mouth of the river, and put to sea, returning probably to 
New Orleans. They were not seized, or their cargoes disturbed in any- 
way, nor have they been in the harbor of Brazos Santiago to my know- 
ledge. A Mexican schooner, understood to be the " Juanita," was in or 
off that harbor when my instructions to block the river were issued, but 
was driven to sea in a gale, since which time I have had no report con- 
cerning her. Since the receipt of your communication, I have learned 
that two persons, sent to the mouth of the river to procure information re- 
specting this vessel, proceeded thence to Brazos Santiago, when they were 
taken up and detained by the officer in command until my orders could 
be received. I shall order their immediate release. A letter from one of 
them to the Spanish vice-consul is respectfully transmitted herewith. 

In relation to the two Mexicans said to have drifted down the river in a 
boat, and to be prisoners at this time in my camp, I have the pleasure to 
inform you that no such persons have been taken prisoners, or are now 
detained by my authority. The boat in question was carried down empty 
by the current of the river, and drifted ashore near one of our pickets, and 
was secured by the guard. Some time afterwards an attempt was made 
to recover the boat under cover of the darkness; the individuals concern- 
ed were hailed by the guard, and, failing to answer, were fired upon as a 
matter of course. What became of them is not known, as no trace of 
them could be discovered on the following morning. The officer of the 
Mexican guard directly opposite was informed the next day that the boat 
would be returned on proper application to me, and I have now only to 
repeat that assurance. 

In conclusion, I take leave to state that I consider the tone of your com- 
munication highly exceptionable, where you stigmatize the movement of 
the army under my orders as " marked with the seal of universal reproba- 
tion." You must be aware that such language is not respectful in itself, 
either to me or to my government; and while I observe in my own cor- 
respondence the courtesy due to your high position, and to the magnitude 
of the interests with which we are respectively charged, I shall expect the 
same in return. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. TAYLOR, 
Brevet Brig. Gen. U. S. A., commanding. 

Sr. Gen. D. Pedro de Ampudia, 

Commanding in Matamoros. 



DESPATCHES OF GEN. TAYLOR. 293 



Division or the North, ") 

Second General-in-Chief, j" 

In reply to your note which I received yesterday, I have the honor to 
state that if Col. Cross, quartermaster general of the forces under your 
command, had been found at any of the military posts under my orders, 
his lot would have been that of a prisoner of war, treated with the con- 
sideration due to his rank, and according to the rules prescribed by the 
law of nations and of war, well considered in his situation of prisoner. 

The rumor was current in this place, also, that the colonel in question 
had disappeared from your camp; but I have been able to learn nothing 
certainly, so that I cannot answer satisfactorily the respectful request in 
your note on the subject. 

The particular circumstances in which we are placed should not pre- 
vent me, in my private capacity, yielding to the sentiments of humanity, 
from manifesting to a certain point my sympathy for the feelings of the 
family of Col. Cross, caused by his disappearance. 

I renew to you, on this occasion, the consideration due. 

God and Liberty! 

Head Quarters in Matamoros, April 16, 1846. 

PEDRO DE AMPUDIA. 

S . en. D. Z. Taylor. 



294 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

LIST OF COMMISSIONED OFFICERS 

Of the United States Army present in the actions of "Palo Jllto" and 
" Resaca de la Palma," on the 8th and 9th days of May, 1846. 

Camargo, August 18th, 1846. 
Dear Sir : — Your note requesting the names of the officers -who parti- 
cipated in the recent service of the army on the Rio Grande was received 
before our head quarters left Matamoros. but on account of the press of 
business could not be attended to at that time. I now send a copy of our 
official list, which has been recently prepared under instructions from 
Washington. #,##,#-### 

I remain yours, very truly, 
W. W. S. BLISS. 
Mr. T. B. Thorpe. 



General Staff. 

Brev. Brig. Gen. Z. Taylor. 

Lieut. Col. M. M. Payne, Inspec. Gen., wounded in the action of the 9th. 

Brev. Capt. W. W. S. Bliss, Asst. Adj. Gen. 

First Lieut. J. H. Eaton, Aid-de-camp. 

Capt. G. G. Waggaman, Commissary of Subsistence. 

First Lieut. J. M. Scarritt, Engineers. 

C In the action of the 8th only. Ac- 

I cidentally killed by the discharge of 
First Lieut. J. E. Blake, Top. Engs. <j hig Qwn pigtol qr the moming ^ the 

! 9th. 
Second Lieut. Geo. Meade, do. 

Sin the action of the 8th only — re- 
maining with the 18 pounder bat- 



l tery at "Palo Alto/' 
Major H. K. Craig, Ord. Dept. 
Brev. Second Lieut. T. J. Brereton, Ord. Dept. 
Surgeon P. H. Craig, Med. Director. 

r In the action of the 8th only — re- 
Capt. G. H. Crosman, Asst. Qr. Mas. < maining at " Palo Alto" with the 

( train. 
« A.C.Myers, do. do. do. do. 



LIST OF COMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 295 



Surgeon N. S. Jarvis, 3d Inf. 



J. J. B. Wright, 8th Inf. 



Asst. Surg. J. B. Porter, Art. Bat. 
" " M. Mills, 4th Inf. 



„ , , „ . _ ( In the action of the 8th only— de- 

B. M. Byrne, 2d Drag. < ' , , ... , , . -p, T , , 

J ; ° ( tached with wounded to Pt. Isabel. 

J. R. Conrad, 5th Inf. 

_ „ „ T . _ ( In the action of the 8th only— de- 

D. C. De Leon, Art. Bat. L . , . , , , . TU T , , 

( tached with wounded to Pt. Isabel. 



it 


a 


J. W. Russell, 5th Inf. 


(C 


u 


J. Simons, 4th Inf. 

r In the action of the 8th only — re- 


a 


it 


T. C. Madison, 8th Inf. < maining at "Palo Alto" with the 
t train. 


a 


(C 


A. W. Kennedy, 3d Inf. 


v. 


a 


J. K. Barnes, 2d Drag. 



Second Dragoons. 
Col. D. E. Twiggs. 
Capt. C. Ker. 

" C.A.May. 

" N. W. Hunter. 

« L. P. Graham. 
First Lieut. R. A. Arnold, Brev. Capt, 

" « Z. M. P. Inge. Killed in the action of the 9th. 

« « W. H. Saunders. 

" " A. Lowry. 

" » F. Hamilton. 

" « 0. F. Winship. 

" « R. P. Campbell. 

lx . TTT . n . _ . ( In the action of the 8th only — detached 
Second Lieut. William Steele. < . , , , . . . ; ; ^ T , , 

( with the wounded in charge to Pt. Isabel. 

" « P. W. McDonald, Adjt. 

" " A. Pleasanton. 

Brev. Second Lieut. D. B. Sackett. 

First Artillery. 
Capt. J. Dimick, Brev. Major. 
First Lieut. J. B. Magruder. 

" " J. S. Hatheway. 

« « W. H. Fowler. 
Second Lieut. S. K. Dawson. 



296 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 

Second Lieut. J. F. Irons. 

" " Seth Williams. 

Brev. Second Lieut. T. J. Curd. 
" « " T. B. J. Weld. 

Second Artillery. 
Capt. S. Mackenzie. 

" C. F. Smith. 

" Jas. Duncan. 
First Lieut. R. A. Luther. In the action of the 8th only — wounded. 

" " J. F. Roland. 

" « C. B. Daniels. 
Second Lieut. L. Chase. 

" " A. A. Gibson. 

« " Wm. Hays. 

Brev. Second Lieut. J. J. Peck. 

" « " H. F. Clarke. 

Third Artillery. 
Brev. Lieut. CoL T. Childs. 

t> M • en' u (Wounded in the action of the 8th — died of 
Brev. Maior S. Ringgold. -{ 

J { wounds on the 10th. 

Capt. M. Burke. 

First Lieut. Geo. Taylor, Brev. Capt. 

" " R. Ridgely. 



:< (( 


W. 


H. 


Shover. 


:c a 


w. 


Gilham. 


c a 


w. 


H. 


Churchill 



In the action of the 8th only — remaining 
in command of the 18 pounder battery at 
" Palo Alto." 
" " G. W. Ayers. 
Second Lieut. S. L. Fremont. 
" " C. L. Kilburn. 

Brev. Second Lieut. S. G. French. 

Fourth Artillery. 
Capt. W. W. Morris, Brev. Major. 

" J. B. Scott. 

" R. C. Smead. 
First Lieut. J. C. Pemberton. 

" " J. P. McCown. 
Second Lieut. S. S. Fahnestock. 



LIST OF COMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 297 

Second Lieut. R. S. Garnett, Adj. Art. Bat. 

" « C. Benjamin. 

Brev. Second Lieut. J. F. Farry. 

Third Regiment of Infantry. 



Capt 


L. N. Morris. 




a 


H. Bainbridge. 




a 


^. P. Field. 




u 


J. N. Barbour. 




First Lieut. W. S. Henry. 




a 


< L. S. Craig. 




tt 


\ J. M. Smith. 




u 


" W. H. Gordon. 




it 


" D. T. Chandler. 




it 


"\ S. D. Dobbins, slightly wounded 


in the action of the 9th. 


a 


" \ B. R. Johnson. 




tt 


" \ 0. L Shepherd. 




u 


« W.B.Johns. 




Second Ue\t. D. S. Irwin, Brev. 2d Lieut, and Adjt. 


a 


" Thos. Jordan. 




tt 


" \ D. C. Buell. 




it 


" \ I. B. Richardson. 




it 


« W. T. H. Brooks. 




tt 


" A. W. Bowman. 




tt 


" A.. J. Williamson. 




it 


" it. Hazlitt. 




Brev 


Second Ueut. J. C. McFerran. 




it 


" " H. B. Schroeder. 




it 


" « J. J. C. Bibb. 




it 


" l« J. P. Hatch. 




it 


« " B. E. Bee. 





Fourth Regiment of Infantry. 
Lieut. Col. J. Garand. 
Capt. G. W. Allen; Brev. Major. 

,, T , „ (Severely wounded in the action of the 9th— died of 
j0hnPa H Wounds July 12th. 

" W. M. Grah^n, Brev. Major. 

" P. Morrison. 

« G. A. McCall 

" G. Morris. 

11 R. C. Buchanai. 



298 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



Capt. C. H. Lamard. 
First Lieut. B. Alvord. 
" « C. Hoskins, Adjt. 
" " R. H. Graham. 

:( " R. E. Cochrane, killed in the action of the 9th. 
Second Lieut. S. Smith. 
" " G. 0. Haller. 

" « H. D. Wallen. 

" " J. Beaman. 

" " C. R. Perry. 

" " C. C. Augur. 

" " N. S. Grant. 

Brev. Second Lieut. J. S. Woods. 
" " « A.Hays. 

" " « J. A. Richey. 

" " « P. A. Farrelly. 

Fifth Regiment of Infantry. 
Lieut. Col. J. S. Mcintosh, severely wounded in the action of he 9th. 
Major T. Staniford. 
Capt. M. Scott. 
" M.E.Merrill. 
" E.K.Smith. 

" A. S. Hooe, do. do. do. do. 

" W. Chapman. 
First Lieut. R. B. Marcy. 
" " D. Ruggles. 
" " C. L. Stevenson. 
" " J. A. Whitall. 
" " Geo. Deas, Adjt. 

" " S. H. Fowler, slightly wounded in the actionof the 9th. 
Second Lieut. S. Norvell. 
" " J. C. Robinson. 
" " M. Rosecrants. 

Brevet Second Lieut. J. P. Smith. 
" " « E.K.Smith. 

li " " T. G. Pitcher. 

" « « W.L.Crittenden. 

Eighth Regiment of Infantry. 
Major W. G. Belknap, Brev. LieuS Col. 
Capt. W. R. Montgomery, slightly wounded in the acton of the 9th. 



LIST OF COMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 

Capt. H. McKavett. 

« J. V. Bomford. 
First Lieut. I. V. D. Reeve. 

" " C. R. Gates, wounded in the action of the 9th. 

" " Geo. Lincoln. 



a 


" A. L. Sheppard. 








It 


« J. Selden, 


do. 


do. 


do. 


a 


« A. T. Lee. 








u 


••' R. P. Maclay. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


u 


« J. G. Burbank. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Second Lieut. J. Beardsley. 









" C. F. Morris. do. do. do. 

" « J. D. Clark ; Adjt. 

" " C. D. Jordan, wounded (severely) in the action of the 9th. 

" " J. Longstreet. 

" " J. B. Booker. 

" " T. L. Chadbourne, killed in the action of the 9th. 

" « E. B. Holloway. 

" " L. B. Wood. 

" " A. Crozet. 

Brev. Second Lieut. H. M. Judah. 

" "* " C. G. Merchant. 

" " « G. Wainwright. 

" « « J. G. S. Snelling. 

"> " " T. J. Montgomery. 



LIST OF COMMISSIONED OFFICERS 

Of the United States Army present at the defence of Fort Broivn, 2d to 9th 

May, 1846. 

General Staff. 
Capt. J. K. F. Mansfield, Engs. 
Asst. Surgeon L. C. McPhail. 

" " H. E. Cruttenden. 

" « G. M. Provest. 

Second Regiment of Artillery. 
Capt. A. Lowd. 
First Lieut. A. Elzey. 
Second Lieut. A. B. Lansing. 



300 OUR ARMY ON THE RIO GRANDE. 



Third Regiment of Artillery. 
First Lieut. B. Bragg. 

« « G. H. Thomas. 
Second Lieut. J. F. Reynolds. 

Fourth Regiment of Artillery. 
Brev. Second Lieut. J. P. Johnstone. 

Seventh Regiment of Infantry. 
Major J. Brown, wounded on the 6th— died of wounds on the 9th. 
Capt. E. S. Haw r kins. 
" F.Lee. 
« D. S. Miles. 
" W. Seawell, Brev. Major. 
" G. J. Rains, do. 
« T.H.Holmes. 
" R. H.Ross. 
« D. P. Whiting. 
" R. C. Gatlin. 
« G.R.Paul. 
First Lieut. F. Britton. 
" « N. Hopson. 
" « C. Hanson. 
« « J. C. Henshaw. 
« « H. Little. 
« " C. H. Humber. 
Second Lieut. F. N. Page, Adj. 
« « L. Gantt. 

" " N. J. T. Dana. 

" " L. McLaws. 

« " S. B. Hayman. 

« " E. Van Dora. 

« « F. Gardner. 

« (; J. H. Potter. 

Brev. Second Lieut. E. B. Strong. 
« " " J.M.Henry. 

« « " H. B. Clitz. 

« « " W.H.Wood. 

THE END. 



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u ri; - II derived his 

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.." hi :m imposini i.fjhi • ■ 

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rm.d ii, r sword aixi buck 
•odoni '• i trembled in their capitola, scared by the di -iioutof 

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^BBBS I I ' 



